N.J. Governor Honors Lawrentian’s Fight Against Book Bans

Earlier this week, Fourth Former Miranda De Olden got to be front and center seeing her advocacy work in action.

De Olden was personally invited by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to attend the signing of the New Jersey Freedom to Read Act into law. Murphy invited De Olden in recognition of advocacy work she took part in as a student at Lawrenceville.

A Hutchins Institute for Social Justice Civic Media grant recipient, De Olden worked with a team of creators on a film about recent book bans.

“What motivated us to take action was that a lot of these [book banning] groups are unfairly targeting members of LGBTQ and BIPOC communities, that’s why this film and fighting bans was important to us,” she said.

“We learned it's a lot of work to capture a story and cover an issue on both sides and take into consideration both perspectives on the issue,” De Olden said. Her group also helped advocate for the passage of the New Jersey Freedom to Read Act in the New Jersey State Senate. The bill limits book bans in public schools and libraries and protects librarians from lawsuits and criminal charges.

De Olden testified in the New Jersey State Senate on behalf of the bill, and says it was a great experience seeing the law pass.

“Our advocacy work contributed to making sure this bill got passed,” she said.

“It’s been so cool to be part of the political process—from advocating for the bill and seeing amendments made, to testifying and watching it gain support in both chambers.”

“It was also such a proud and unforgettable experience to witness this historic moment and to see the Governor sign the bill into state law to protect inclusive stories and literature from being banned,” she said.

De Olden received one of the Governor’s signature pens as a recognition of her advocacy work in support of this legislation, and says she plans to take more classes on government and public policy to continue learning about public service work.

“The signing was such a special and emotional moment for me,” she added, “and it was so moving to feel that advocacy and political action does work!”

Photo: De Olden at the signing with N.J. Governor Phil Murphy 

For more information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.