Ramadan Children’s Book Returns to Winnipeg Schools After Backlash

A children’s book centered on Ramadan is set to return to elementary school shelves in Winnipeg after facing temporary removal due to public criticism. The Louis Riel School Division announced on October 20, 2023, that the book, authored by Palestinian writer Maysa Odeh, will be reinstated following a review process sparked by community concerns.

The picture book tells the story of a girl and her grandmother preparing a traditional dish to break their fast together after sunset. It was initially taken off the shelves last week following a complaint regarding an illustration of a map. A statement from the school division acknowledged that the earlier decision caused apprehension within the community about issues of censorship and trust in the review process.

The division’s notice outlined that an “informal review” was concluded, and it expressed commitment to ensuring resources under scrutiny remain accessible during future evaluations. The internal policy stipulates that materials challenged should not be restricted while under reconsideration.

In the fall, the school division ordered 13 copies of the book across 13 elementary schools. Superintendent Christian Michalik confirmed that distribution was underway when a concern emerged about an illustration on the back cover. The image depicted a map of modern-day Israel overlaid with a checkered pattern resembling a keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian scarf. Arabic place names surrounded the drawing, which led to discomfort among some staff members.

One library technician expressed unease regarding the swift removal of the book, stating that library staff were informed that an employee felt unsafe due to the book’s contents. The school division later emphasized that its review took into account the specific concern, while also assessing the overall educational value and appropriateness for elementary students.

The division reiterated its goal of having school libraries that “reflect a wide range of cultures, identities, and lived experiences.” This commitment aims to foster inclusivity and representation within educational materials.

A representative from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group expressed pride in publishing the book, highlighting its celebration of cultural traditions and intergenerational family bonds. Molly Ellis, senior vice-president of publicity, stated, “This book will delight young children, whether they celebrate Ramadan or not.”

The reinstatement of the book marks an important moment in the ongoing dialogue about representation in educational resources. The school division’s actions reflect a broader awareness of the significance of diverse narratives in fostering understanding and appreciation among students.

This decision underscores the importance of community input in shaping educational content while navigating the complexities of cultural representation. As the book returns to libraries, it serves as a reminder of the vital role that inclusive literature plays in enriching the educational experience for all students.