A process is being undertaken in our public schools and libraries that many are not aware of. It is an effort that will systematically erase our history, traditions, and many of the literary heroes of our childhood, allowing it all to be rewritten so as not to ‘offend’.

The attached article outlines a process of weeding out books, once available to the public and students, using the “MUSTIE” acronym (Misleading, Unpleasant, Superseded, Trivial, Irrelevant, Elsewhere).

However, the directive seems confusing to many libraries and most have explained they simply removed books based on a date of publication prior to 2008, with no other criteria being considered.

As an example, the Peel District School Board (PDSB) explains, “Books published prior to 2008 that are damaged, inaccurate, or do not have strong circulation data are removed,” and will only be replaced if they are “accurate, serve the curriculum, align with board initiatives and are responsive to student interest and engagement. The PDSB claims to ensure that the books available will be “culturally responsive, relevant, inclusive, and reflective of the diversity of our school communities and the broader society”.

Somehow the arbitrary date of 2008 has been chosen as the starting point for the publishing of acceptable and inclusive literature.

All the great literary novels of our childhood will be gone, as will history texts that speak of slavery or any of the other current ‘sensitive’ subjects. We are witnessing a rewriting of our known history for the education of future generations.

Since when is it such a terrible thing to be offended that it has become acceptable to erase that which offends?  Being offended promotes critical thinking, self-evaluation, and positive action. Being offended by history ensures we are not likely to repeat these offences.

We must ensure future generations learn from the mistakes of the past and not just focus on the emotional aspect of their response, and have the right to express their distaste, both for and against these policies. That is freedom of speech and expression.

Rewriting history does nothing to benefit humanity.

To read the CBC News article written by Nicole Brockbank and Angelina King, click here