Statement On The Randolph County Commissioners Dismissing The Library Board Of Trustees

Last night the Randolph County Commissioners voted 3 to 2 to remove the entire Library Board of Trustees over its refusal to pull Call Me Max. I want to thank Commissioners Hope Haywood and David Allen for standing firm and voting no.

I do not support the book in question. I do support free speech, and I support every person’s right to read or not read any book of their choice. I also support every parent’s right to decide what their own children may or may not read. These principles matter more than any single title.

Removing an entire board for disagreeing with elected officials sets a precedent that reaches far beyond this issue. We can protect our values without abandoning our freedoms.

Thank you, Commissioners Haywood and Allen, for choosing principle over pressure.