Happy banned books week!

I just read in the L.A. Times that Banned Books week started Sept. 24 and ends Oct. 1. Funny that this didn't get more publicity, but in the general scheme of things this ranks pretty low, I guess. Still, it's an extremely important topic, as freedom of thought and expression are the most important freedoms for a democratic society. It seems hard to believe that attempts to ban or censor books are still underway, but they are, especially in schools and libraries where groups with an ax to grind do so under the banner of "protecting" children - usually religious. The number one book in the sites of book-banners is "And Tango Makes Three," the true story about two male penguins who hatched and raised a baby penguin - a gay penguin family! Looking over the top ten books targeted the theme of sexuality is the connecting thread, particularly homosexuality, and the groups involved overwhelmingly religious. What is it about human sexuality that gets many religious peoples' panties in a twist? And they're not satisfied with suppressing it among themselves, but they also have to do so for the rest of us. And, when challenged on their propensity for authoritarian behavior, they inevitably whine about how their "freedom" of religion is being attacked, as if their religion involves forcing others to conform (actually, it does). The only good response is a relentless campaign of resistance, ridicule, and education. The forces that would enshroud humanity in superstitious ignorance are always there; the price of liberty is eternal vigilance!