LeVar Burton Calls Out Moms for Liberty at National Book Awards: ‘Books Are Under Attack’

The former host of "Reading Rainbow" criticized book banning in his opening speech at the 74th National Book Awards Ceremony & Benefit Dinner

LeVar Burton called out the conservative organization Moms for Liberty in his opening remarks at the 74th National Book Awards & Benefit Dinner on Wednesday in New York City.

“Before we get going, are there any Moms for Liberty in the house? Moms for Liberty? No? Good. Then hands will not need to be thrown tonight,” he said jokingly.

Moms for Liberty campaigns against the inclusion of certain topics, including LGBTQ issues and race, in school curricula, and its chapters have advocated to remove many books about sexuality and gender from school libraries. 

The National Book Awards recognize outstanding contributions to literature. It is viewed as one of the most prestigious literary honors in the United States. Burton was announced as the new host of the 2023 ceremony after the National Book Foundation rescinded initial host Drew Barrymore’s invitation. Barrymore received criticism after she announced her decision to resume her talk show during the SAG-AFTRA strike.

Burton has been a vocal supporter of literary freedom. He was named as the 2023 Honorary Chair of Banned Books Week and promoted literacy as the host of children's educational program Reading Rainbow. In his speech, he noted how freedom "feels especially fraught in this global political moment" and criticized book banning and its impacts both writers and readers.

Related: 'Reading Rainbow' 's LeVar Burton Reads for Kids and Adults on Twitter Livestream amid Pandemic

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"On the home front, we are fighting for control of truth and how we interpret truth in this country," Burton said. "Books are being banned, words are being silenced, and writers and others who champion books are under attack.”

This year’s National Book Awards ceremony featured Oprah Winfrey as a special guest, who also touched upon the importance of literary freedom. Julie Andrews, Matthew McConaughey, Samin Nosrat, Trevor Noah and Dua Lipa pre-recorded introductions to each of the categories, which included Young People's Literature, Translated Literature, Poetry, Nonfiction and Fiction.

Burton also gave a nod to his mother, an English teacher, who taught him that “if you can read in at least one language, you are, by her definition, free.” The Roots actor then gave a shout out to his sister, Letitia, whom he credits with teaching him how to read.

A number of celebrities have called out book banning this year, including Pink, who teamed up with non-profit PEN America to give away banned books at her Florida concert stops. Ariana Grande and Gabrielle Union are among the ones who signed an open letter denouncing book bans.

Related: Julia Roberts, More Stars Issue Call to Action to 'Let America Read' amid Growing List of Banned Books

In his speech, Burton explained why he believes "books are under attack."

“It’s because they're so powerful,” he said. “Stories are the tool that enable us to better understand ourselves and, yes, our history. To live over the course of a few pages in the experiences of another and to create a world where we can all be free.”

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