Banned Together

Literature has to the power to educate, inspire, challenge, create dreams and change the world. "Banned Together" is a real world perspective about the trials and tribulations of censorship. This documentary addresses book bans and curriculum censorship. Following three students and their adult supporters as they navigate the process to be heard is fascinating. It is refreshing to see our youth in action, eloquently supporting their views. You will experience elation, admiration, incredulity, desperation and many other emotions. A must see! A testimony to why stories and voices should never be silenced.

This was such an amazing documentary about the importance of free speech and the right to read. It was told beautifully through the eyes of high school students in South Carolina as they worked to reintroduce books that were banned in their school district. It highlights the importance of books in our society and really peels back the curtains on why people are trying to ban books which I found fascinating. Unfortunately, it does end right before the current administration took office so obviously things are even more volatile in this area right now. But if anything that just reinvigorates me more to stand up for what I believe in.

Sometimes it takes youth, not yet jaded, not so beaten down, to stand up for what is so obviously right... to call the fanatical, un-American book banning what it is, and to actually do something about it. As an adult battling for the rights of parents, students and teachers against the faux-"parental rights", astroturf groups, it's often exhausting to face the same nonsense arguments again and again. These kids show the power of community, of supporting and encouraging one another, and the power of hope. The film does a great job of showing the scope of the issue -- talking to authors, educators, even letting the censors speak for themselves.

Banned Together is a powerful documentary that lingers long after the credits roll. It follows three high school seniors from Beaufort County, South Carolina-Isabella Troy Brazoban, Elizabeth Foster, and Millie Bennett-as they fight against book bans in their district. Nearly 100 books, many featuring LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and female voices, were pulled after complaints from a very small group of parents influenced by organizations like Moms for Liberty.

What makes this film so compelling is its personal nature-you're not just watching a policy debate, but real students with real stakes refusing to be silenced. Their journey through school board meetings, protests, and national advocacy highlights their passion for free speech and representation. If you think 'today's generation' is only interested in TikTok trends, these students tenacity will surprise and inspire you.

Beyond their local battle, Banned Together connects to a nationwide wave of censorship, forcing viewers to ask: Who decides what students can read? What are we really protecting them from? And why are marginalized voices often the target?

Critics have praised the film for good reason-it's inspiring, eye-opening, and, at times, infuriating. It showcases both the courage of these students and the creeping threat of censorship in public education. If you care about free speech, education, or youth activism, this is a must-watch.

In this moment of political upheaval by a radical minority, we witness 3 young women who will not accept the destruction of books and the core of their education.

Books inform, books can change lives, and books liberate our minds. These young women inspire and create a movement for all of us to join.

Where are young people supposed to turn when counselors are in short supply, libraries are being censored and adults are commanding the floor with nonsensical, inaccurate information? If we don't all speak up now to stop this, there will be no cause for us to defend. THIS is something we can all do now.