1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed 2025 Ohio state budget, which includes harmful cuts to public libraries and discriminatory measures targeting LGBTQ+ books and identities. Public libraries serve as essential community resources, providing education, access to information, and a safe space for all Ohioans—especially marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ youth. Defunding libraries by over $100 million over two years not only weakens our communities but also hinders free access to knowledge and literacy programs that benefit all Ohioans. Furthermore, provisions that mandate the relocation or restriction of LGBTQ+ materials and the erasure of trans identities from state-recognized resources amount to government-sanctioned censorship and discrimination. Such actions send a dangerous message that LGBTQ+ individuals and their experiences are unwelcome or inappropriate, which is not only harmful but fundamentally un-American. I urge you to reject any budget that includes these provisions and instead advocate for policies that support inclusive education, robust public services, and the rights of all Ohioans to access diverse perspectives. Please stand against censorship and discrimination and ensure Ohio remains a state that values freedom, knowledge, and dignity for all its residents.