How The ACLU Is Responding to Book Bans in US Military Schools: Book Censorship News, June 6, 2025

Kelly, a former librarian and seasoned blogger at STACKED, is the editor/author of (DON’T) CALL ME CRAZY: 33 VOICES START THE CONVERSATION ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH and HERE WE ARE: FEMINISM FOR THE REAL WORLD. Her upcoming book, BODY TALK, is set to be released in Fall 2020. For more updates, follow her on Instagram @heykellyensen.

Numerous other issues remain unaddressed, including ongoing federal lawsuits concerning the closure of the Institute for Museum and Library Services. A lawsuit receiving less attention involves censorship outside the typical school and public library setting. The Department of Defense Education Activity schools, operating under the Department of Defense, issued one of the first book banning orders under the current federal administration. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit against the administration regarding these book banning demands in schools.

DoDEA, a federal agency overseeing public schools on military bases worldwide, faced significant changes following three executive orders signed by President Donald Trump in January 2025. These orders led to book bans, removal of historical figures’ posters, and cancellations of cultural celebrations in DoDEA schools. The ACLU filed a lawsuit against DoDEA on behalf of families with children in these schools, arguing that the removals violate the First Amendment.

Despite resistance, DoDEA proceeded with banning 555 books and 41 curricular materials for review. The majority of banned materials reportedly involve content by or about women, LGBTQ individuals, and people of color. The ACLU and student organizers have been actively opposing these policies, seeking to restore banned materials and curriculum.

The battle against censorship extends beyond DoDEA, as various public libraries face challenges related to book bans and restrictions. Instances of censorship in public libraries across the United States highlight ongoing efforts to protect intellectual freedom and access to diverse literary works.