The Association of Canadian Publishers (ACP) is deeply concerned by the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which permits parents to opt their children out of public school instruction that includes books with LGBTQ+ themes, citing religious objections. The decision mandates that Maryland’s Montgomery County Public Schools must provide advance notice and permit opt-outs when such books are used in the classroom.
At the centre of this case is Pride Puppy!, a picture book written by Canadian author Robin Stevenson and illustrated by Julie McLaughlin, published by ACP member Orca Book Publishers. The alphabet rhyming story follows a young child and their family as they search for their lost puppy during a Pride parade, celebrating love, community, and belonging. In 2022, Pride Puppy! was introduced into the elementary language arts curriculum at Montgomery County Public Schools as part of the district’s efforts to reflect the diversity of its 160,000 students.
This ruling raises troubling questions about the future of inclusive public education in the U.S. Books that explore gender identity, sexual orientation, and different family structures are essential tools for building empathy and ensuring that all students feel represented. ACP champions the ideals of freedom of expression, freedom to publish, and freedom to read, all of which are cornerstones of a democratic society and a thriving educational ecosystem.
“Limiting students’ exposure to stories that reflect the real diversity of society undermines the mission of public education,” said Alana Wilcox, President of ACP. “Pride Puppy! and books like it aren’t controversial—they offer children a chance to see themselves and others with empathy and understanding. Inclusive literature doesn’t push a particular belief; it simply acknowledges that all families and identities deserve to be part of the story.”
ACP stands in solidarity with the publishers, authors, educators, and librarians who continue to champion inclusive storytelling in the face of mounting opposition. We will continue to support the publication and promotion of inclusive books in Canada and beyond, and advocate for public education systems that uphold equity and intellectual freedom.
For more information, contact:
Dani MacDonald
Research & Communications Manager, ACP
dani_macdonald@canbook.org