National Day of Reading: A Controversial Celebration of LGBTQ+ Literature

On February 24, 2023, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation hosted its 11th annual National Day of Reading, an event designed to promote LGBTQ+ literature and support queer youth. This initiative has grown from a local response to a single incident in Wisconsin into a nationwide movement, with approximately 2,800 readings planned across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, aiming to reach nearly 300,000 participants. The event is anchored by HRC’s Welcoming Schools program, which provides resources for educators to create inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students.

Expert: National Day of Reading a ‘Trojan Horse’ to indoctrinate kids

The National Day of Reading was inspired by a 2012 incident where a kindergarten teacher sought to read "I Am Jazz," a book about a transgender girl, to their class. After facing parental objections, allies organized a public reading that attracted hundreds, highlighting the power of community support for LGBTQ+ narratives. Cheryl Greene, HRC's vice president of school and youth programming, emphasized that the event serves as a response to increasing hostility towards LGBTQ+ youth, including restrictions on teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation.

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Supporters of the National Day of Reading argue that it is a vital platform for affirming LGBTQ+ identities and fostering empathy among children. HRC President Kelley Robinson stated, “Moments like the National Day of Reading remind [LGBTQ+ youth] that their stories matter.” Conversely, critics view the event as a vehicle for promoting what they term "LGBTQ propaganda." Dustin DeVito, director of research at the nonprofit 1792 Exchange, described the initiative as a "Trojan horse" for introducing LGBTQ+ themes into school curricula under the guise of anti-bullying efforts.

Expert: National Day of Reading a ‘Trojan Horse’ to indoctrinate kidsThe Advocate

The HRC has framed the National Day of Reading as a necessary countermeasure against censorship and book bans that disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ literature. Greene noted that many critics of these books have not engaged with the material, urging them to “open these books and read them instead of listening to the propaganda on the right.” In contrast, opponents argue that the event promotes inappropriate content for children, with some parents expressing concern over the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes in educational settings.

Expert: National Day of Reading a ‘Trojan Horse’ to indoctrinate kids

There is a notable divide in public opinion regarding the National Day of Reading. Supporters cite the importance of representation and inclusivity, while critics assert that the event constitutes indoctrination. Additionally, the extent of participation and the impact of the event on local communities remain subjects of debate, with varying reports on the number of readings and participants.

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• “What it showed us is that one, the power of allies and saying, this is not okay, but the power of reading,” — Cheryl Greene, HRC Vice President

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• “Even if they don’t understand every political decision behind it, they feel the impact,” Robinson said in a statement.” — Kelley Robinson, HRC President

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• “They have this ‘anti bullying’ curriculum that’s really just a Trojan horse for reading books about transgenderism to kids,” — Dustin DeVito, Director of Research, 1792 Exchange

Expert: National Day of Reading a ‘Trojan Horse’ to indoctrinate kids

The National Day of Reading continues to spark dialogue about the role of literature in shaping societal values and the importance of inclusivity in educational environments.

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