Hilarie Burton Says ‘Small Acts of Resistance’ Can Help Combat ‘Increasingly Routine’ Book Bans (Exclusive)

Hilarie Burton Provides Guidance to Combat Book Bans (Exclusive)

Actress and author Hilarie Burton shares insights on how to address the issue of book bans, offering advice on taking action against censorship.

A recent report by PEN America sheds light on the increasing normalization of book bans in the United States. Released on October 1, the organization’s annual “Banned in the USA” report documented 6,870 cases of book bans in 87 public school districts spanning 23 states during the 2024-2025 academic year. Titles such as “Wicked” by Gregory Maguire, “Forever” by Judy Blume, and “Last Night at the Telegraph Club” by Malinda Lo were among the most commonly banned books, while authors like Stephen King and Jodi Picoult faced censorship as well.

While some trends from previous years persist, the report also highlights new developments. There has been a noticeable increase in pressure for book bans coming from the federal government, with executive orders like “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling” being used as grounds for censorship. These actions have led to the removal of hundreds of books from military base schools, illustrating a broader national concern beyond isolated incidents.

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Hilarie Burton, a vocal advocate for free speech and collaboration with PEN America during Banned Books Week, emphasises the widespread nature of the issue. She underscores the importance of maintaining freedom of expression, particularly within educational settings where exploration and critical thinking are paramount. As a parent, Burton recognises the significance of combating censorship in schools to ensure that students have access to diverse perspectives and ideas.

Furthermore, the report highlights the impact of book bans on authors and illustrators, who may face financial strain and self-censorship as a result of censorship efforts. Burton stresses the need to protect creators, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, whose voices play a vital role in fostering inclusivity and understanding.

In addition to affecting individuals, book bans also have broader implications for public school systems. Educators and librarians are increasingly burdened by censorship campaigns, diverting their focus from quality instruction and limiting student engagement with literature that reflects varied life experiences.

Despite the challenges posed by censorship, the report identifies pockets of resistance against book bans. In many of the school districts where bans occurred, there were also instances of public pushback from individuals, groups, and communities, highlighting a growing opposition to censorship practices.

Burton encourages individuals to engage in small acts of resistance, such as supporting banned books in local libraries or participating in community initiatives to safeguard literary freedom. By starting at a grassroots level and focusing on local involvement, she believes that individuals can make a meaningful impact in the fight against censorship.

As efforts to combat book bans continue, organisations like PEN America remain steadfast in their commitment to defending free expression and promoting diverse voices in literature. Through advocacy, awareness, and community action, the fight against censorship can gain momentum and protect the fundamental right to access information and ideas.