“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” -Philippians 4:8
Virginia passed a law in 2022 and increased it in 2023 to help students improve their reading skills, called the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA). The law aimed to address the poor/failing reading scores across the Commonwealth. Schools are now using new reading programs and books based on this law.
But here’s the concern:
Concerned Women for America (CWA) of Virginia is concerned that some of the recommended books for students in Kindergarten through 8th grade include content that has Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) themes. Though these terms may seem harmless, they often introduce ideologies that elevate group identity over individual character, promote unequal treatment in the name of equity, and expose children to adult social topics like gender fluidity and racial division.
DEI themes shift focus from academics and character to identity politics – repackaging controversial ideas under a more acceptable label. CWA of Virginia believes public education should emphasize truth, academic excellence, and shared values, not divisive ideologies that erode parental rights and a biblical worldview.
We want our students to become strong readers, but we also care about what they are reading.
This isn’t just a parental issue.
Even if you don’t have kids in school, you are a taxpayer. You are paying for it.
Is this really what you want to fund?
This is not about banning books, but about protecting childhood innocence, promoting transparency, and ensuring your money is used responsibly.
Action is needed:
- Contact your local school district and ask who is in charge of the reading curriculum.
- Request the list of books being used. You can ask for just grades K-2, 3-5, or middle school titles.
- Look up book summaries online to learn what each book is about.
- Check your local library to see if those books are available or ask the school principal if you can borrow a copy to read.
- Note if the inappropriate books tend to come from the same publisher.
- Speak up if a book is inappropriate for the age group, is too advanced, or promotes one-sided views. Send your feedback to the principal and your school board representative.
Please inform me of what you uncover.
Join us in prayer:
Father God, we pray over the Virginia Department of Education staff and each district’s staff and school board responsible for implementing this law. Father, we pray that the selected books will be wholesome, age-appropriate, and honoring Your will. We pray for the protection of each student’s young, developing mind. We pray there is no foul play in the intent of this law to aid students in improving their reading, comprehension, thinking, and vocabulary skills. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
