Atlanta-based organization leads new effort to encourage the reading of banned books

These books have been banned in several public schools and libraries across the U.S. amid a wave of book censorship and restrictions.

Ted Shaffrey / Ted Shaffrey

As schools in Georgia and several states across the country are banning books, a local organization is working to make sure everyone has access to them.

Dr. Catherine Meeks, the executive director of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing, says the banning of books is directly centered in racism and control.

On Tuesday’s edition of “Closer Look,” the retired professor — who has authored several books on racial justice and healing — told show host Rose Scott that some people think if you ban a book, you can ban the person or the idea.

“If you can control what people think and read, you can keep them in line,” said Meeks.

During the conversation, Meeks further explained the difference between healing and reconciliation, the work of the Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing and the center’s new initiative aimed at encouraging people to buy banned books.