The Department of Defense has initiated a comprehensive review of library books within its school system, focusing on works potentially related to "gender ideology or discriminatory equity ideology topics." This action is part of a broader examination of all instructional resources to ensure alignment with executive orders from the Trump administration. The review, known as a "compliance review," has notably included Julianne Moore's children's book "Freckleface Strawberry" among those under scrutiny.
Julianne Moore, a prominent actress and author, expressed her shock and disappointment upon learning that her book was part of this review. "Freckleface Strawberry" tells the story of a young girl who struggles with her freckles but learns to accept them. Moore, an alumna of the now-closed Frankfurt American high school, operated by the Defense Department, shared her dismay on Instagram.
“I am truly saddened and never thought I would see this in a country where freedom of speech and expression is a constitutional right.” – Moore
Moore's connection to the Defense Department runs deep. Her father is a Vietnam veteran who dedicated his career to the US army. This personal history amplifies her disappointment in the suspension of access to her book in schools attended by children of military personnel.
“It is a book I wrote for my children and for other kids to remind them that we all struggle, but are united by our humanity and our community.” – Moore
The review encompasses more than just Moore's work. Other books, such as "No Truth Without Ruth" by Kathleen Krull, which chronicles the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and "Mary & George," are also under examination. Access to all library books was suspended for a week to facilitate this review. Thus far, a "small number of items" have been earmarked for further consideration.
The initiative aligns with Trump's executive orders titled "Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling" and "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism." These orders mandate educational materials' compliance with specified ideological standards.
Moore raised concerns about the implications of this review.
“I could not be prouder of him and his service to our country. It is galling for me to realise that kids like me, growing up with a parent in the service and attending a [Defense Department] school, will not have access to a book written by someone whose life experience is so similar to their own. And I can’t help but wonder what is so controversial about this picture book that has caused it to be banned by the US government.” – Moore