ROCHESTER, Minn. — The group Rochester Pride, which sponsors an annual Pride even, says the book “The Rainbow Parade” never should have been banned from Franklin Elementary School. The group said that the ban is doing more harm than good. “We believe that this decision will ultimately be detrimental to the very students you seek to protect, particularly those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or have family members who do,” a public letter said. “It sends a message that LGBTQIA+ representation is acceptable only when it conforms to specific, narrow standards deemed ‘appropriate’ by a single individual, effectively silencing certain voices and experience..” The book was removed by Superintendent Kent Pekel after a single parent complained that a first-grader brought the book home.
Neilson. A children’s author and filmmaker. Her other works include “Can I Give You a Squish.” A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. Now at an animation studio in Portland, Oregon.
Story line and theme. One day in June, Mommy, Mama, and Emily take the train into the city to watch the Rainbow Parade. The three of them love how all the people in the street are so loud, proud, and colorful, but when Mama suggests they join the parade, Emily feels nervous. Standing on the sidewalk is one thing, but walking in the parade? Surely that takes something special. It’s an experience reminds readers that sometimes pride takes practice and there’s no one way to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community.