A public college in Florida has come under scrutiny after disposing of hundreds of books, many of which focus on LGBTQ issues, race, and feminism. The New College of Florida defended the action as part of an annual “weeding” process, citing state regulations that prevent the sale, donation, or transfer of materials purchased with state funds. The discarded titles included works such as “Cures: A Gay Man’s Odyssey,” “Feminist Thought,” and “Race Music: Black Cultures From Bebop to Hip-Hop.”
The college, known for its historically progressive student body, has faced increasing pressure from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s administration to adopt more conservative values. Last year, New College discontinued its gender studies program, and the recent disposal of books associated with that program has further fueled concerns. Critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida, have condemned the move as a “cultural purge,” drawing parallels to historical instances where regimes sought to control thought by destroying books.
The controversy at New College reflects broader tensions in Florida, where laws restricting the teaching of sexual orientation, gender identity, and critical race theory have led to the removal of books from public schools and libraries. A recent study found that Florida was among the states with the highest number of book bans, particularly targeting works about race and LGBTQ issues. This trend raises questions about the future of academic freedom and diversity in education across the state.
