During a recent government meeting in Smyrna, Tennessee, a local bookstore owner passionately opposed the ongoing trend of book banning, emphasizing the critical role literature plays in healing from trauma. Sharing her personal experience as a survivor of violent sexual assault, she highlighted how books helped her process her trauma and find solace.

The speaker argued that removing books deemed inappropriate or \"pornographic\" deprives individuals of essential resources that foster understanding and resilience. She urged the board to recognize the importance of literature in addressing difficult topics, asserting that such discussions empower both children and adults to communicate their experiences and seek help.

She called for a collaborative approach, suggesting that parents should have the autonomy to decide their children's reading materials rather than the school board imposing restrictions. The bookstore owner advocated for trusting librarians to curate educational content, emphasizing that access to diverse narratives is vital for cultivating empathy and supporting those in need.

Concluding her remarks, she implored the board to keep these valuable resources available, reminding them that the world is watching their decisions regarding access to literature.