Credit: Abington Public Library. LAUREL HARRISH PHOTOGRAPHY
The Abington Township Public Library issued a statement addressing negative social media activity related to its Rainbow Connections children’s program.
The statement comes after comments on a Facebook post spread more widely, criticizing the local library program. The Abington Library organized a public event to be held on Jan. 12 intended for residents, which was described as:
"LGBTQ+ kids & allies in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to join Rainbow Connections! Parents & caregivers are encouraged to attend this child-centered program. Meet new friends and talk about LGBTQ+ themed books and topics in a safe space."
Some commenters voiced their displeasure with the event. A few expressed opposition to an LGBTQ-themed event hosted by a public library, asserting that as a publicly funded institution, the library should ensure all events are open and accessible to the general public. They argued that describing the event as intended for LGBTQIA+ youth and allies was discriminatory and questioned the legitimacy of those terms.
One commenter stated an intention to report the event to the ACLU and township officials and also raised objections to Pride banners displayed at local schools, alleging violations of the U.S. Flag Code. They concluded by expressing that designated “safe spaces” should not exist within public institutions and should not supersede existing laws or regulations.
In response, the Abington Library issued the following response:
"The Abington Township Public Library is aware of misinformation circulating about one of our children's programs, Rainbow Connections. To help our community better understand the program and to provide accurate information, we wanted to share what Rainbow Connections is, as well as what it is not.
"Rainbow Connections is a virtual monthly program that began in November 2021 for LGBTQ+ children in grades K-5, their families, and allies. Each month, children and their parents join a Zoom meeting with the two co-hosts, a children's librarian and a local parent, for readings of age-appropriate children's books, literacy activities, and time to connect with new friends.
"The program provides a safe and supportive space for children to learn about inclusion and acceptance of others, express themselves, and, most importantly, connect with other children with similar interests. This often means there is laughter, dancing, and silliness. Through the group, parents can also connect with other parents whose children are part of the LGBTQ+ community and share resources. Rainbow Connections is not a sexual education class. Sexual health, reproduction, puberty, and intimate relationships are not discussed. Rather, Rainbow Connections is a typical children's program at a public library-stories, crafts, singing, writing-that is offered in an extremely intentional space so that children and families who may be misunderstood or experience bullying can feel safe, accepted and included."
"Simply holding more affirming spaces, where kids are encouraged to be who they are, can be crucial to their overall well-being."
The full response can be read here.
Library Director Elizabeth Fitzgerald said the response was intended to correct misinformation about the program and clarify its purpose.
The library has said that no credible threats have been received and that the program’s next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 12.
