Tony Diaz, a writer and educator, was a guest speaker at the National Writing Project's Urban Sites conference last weekend.
He gave us a tidbit of information that floored me. Right now it's against the law to teach Mexican American studies in Arizona schools. Books like House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros. Banned. Apparently Cisneros is trying to overthrow the government with her literature. Several (I imagine) Sherman Alexie books are on the taboo list (I only saw one). Like Water for Chocolate--another one of my favorites--is apparently subversive.
What is up with that?
And once you pick your jaw off the floor (if this is new information for you, like it was for me), I'm going to leave you with something lighter… something like fleecy mullets.
Fleecy mullets? You're intrigued now, right? You're wondering if you're going to have to put a hit on Billy Ray Cyrus, because you won't be able to stomach a mullet craze getting revived?
Read and enjoy...
Against the law? Seriously? I'm floored, too. But thank you so much for posting the link!
ReplyDeleteTammy--It IS crazy. And you're welcome. Your story is hil-ar-i-ous.
DeleteI did know this strange law! Your books are ones I have read...I have loved some of Alexie's work. I like his personal story too, love the way he survived and rose above.
ReplyDeleteClaudia--Sherman Alexie's personal story IS an inspirational one. Thanks for leaving a comment.
DeleteBusiness in the front, party in the back! I don't think that works for the fleecy mullet, though.
ReplyDeleteVal--Yeah, when it comes to Pajama Jeans, that doesn't work...
DeleteBook banning is something I've always been against---another case of the few making decisions for the many. Regarding Tammy's article---I laughed my butt off. And if I were as cute as she is, I might be able to pull off that look, too. Alas, I am not and cannot, and therefore do not. You're welcome. *sigh*
ReplyDeleteLisa--I agree completely. And I am not going to be the reason that people have to gouge their eyes out so I will also not be donning Pajama Jeans. It would NOT be a pretty sight.
ReplyDeleteSeriously, Arizona? I had to look up above my desk to the calendar. Just wanted to check and make sure it was still 2015.
ReplyDelete(I love Sherman Alexie, btw. Should be required reading in every American school. And I'm pretty sure that includes Arizona.)
Cathy--I agree about Sherman Alexie. I worked with a teacher last summer who had a serious crush on him. It was quite funny to see her gush over him. And you're right. He has several books that should be read by every high school kid across the country.
ReplyDeleteJust not in Arizona... :(