Project 2025 and the Misinformation Surrounding a Purported Book Ban List
Claim:
On February 15, a post on Instagram alleged that the conservative policy initiative Project 2025 planned to restrict access to certain books, claiming that the project had created a "banned book list" containing nearly 3,000 titles. This post garnered significant attention, with over 145,000 likes in five days.
Fact Check:
However, this claim is false. Project 2025 did not create the book ban list in question.
Origins of the List:
The alleged "banned book list" was actually created by a TikTok user, as indicated in the introduction of the document itself. The creator’s intent was to raise awareness about potential book bans and the limited access to books in schools and libraries.
Project 2025’s Position on Book Bans:
The Heritage Foundation, which published Project 2025, has explicitly denied generating a banned book list. Spokesperson Ellen Keenan emphasized that this rumor is "completely false and ridiculous."
Project 2025 and Book Ban Rhetoric:
While Project 2025 did not create the specific banned book list, it does employ rhetoric consistent with other book-banning efforts. The project’s proponents have expressed concerns about "transgender ideology" and have advocated for classifying educators and librarians who provide access to certain materials as "registered sex offenders."
PEN America’s Involvement:
PEN America, a non-profit organization that tracks school book bans, has not identified an official banned book list associated with Project 2025. Nonetheless, the organization has noted an increase in book bans over the past few years, primarily targeting materials that explore themes of race, sexuality, and gender identity.
Impact of Misinformation:
The spread of misinformation about Project 2025’s alleged banned book list raises concerns about the erosion of trust in accurate information sources. It also perpetuates fear and distrust within communities, undermining efforts to promote open dialogue and intellectual freedom.
Conclusion:
The claim that Project 2025 created a banned book list is false. While the project’s proponents have expressed support for certain book bans, its rhetoric is more aligned with broader efforts to restrict access to materials that challenge traditional values or discuss sensitive topics. It is crucial to rely on credible information sources to avoid falling prey to misinformation and to protect the right to access a wide range of perspectives and ideas through books.
