Dover Pride Statement (Posted 07/07/25):

In light of the recent situation involving Kent County Council (KCC), Dover Pride stands in strong opposition to the removal and restriction of transgender-related books in our public library system.

What has happened?
On 3rd July 2025,  Kent County Council, now led by Reform UK, claimed that “they removed transgender-related books from the children’s sections of its 99 public libraries and mobile services.” 

The council leader, Linden Kemkaran, claimed this as a “victory for common sense,” arguing that children should not be exposed to stories about being “born in the wrong body.”

This move was triggered by Councillor Paul Webb, the new Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services. Paul Webb issued the instruction without any formal discussion, vote, or consultation with library staff, councillors, or the public. We do not know what exactly was in those instructions. At this moment in time, trans related literature is still available at all Kent’s libraries. 
There was no evidence presented that any inappropriate materials had been placed in children's sections. 
The book most notably targeted in the controversy - “The Autistic Trans Guide to Life” by Yenn Purkis - was not even placed in the children’s section. It was on a general public display table and has since been moved to the adult nonfiction section. 

Why queer literature matters:
Representation in books is not optional - it is essential.
Queer children and young people deserve to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Literature helps young people feel seen, affirmed, and understood. It educates peers, builds empathy, and combats stigma.
As Erin from @thefolkestonebookshop said in the interview with BBC “Books don’t make kids trans, but they do let them know that they are loved.”

What can we do about it?
We refuse to let queer voices be erased. Here's how we fight back:

1. Borrow queer and trans-related books. Especially children's books. 

2. Search the catalogue and borrow inclusive titles. Circulation data matters - if books are being borrowed, they're more likely to stay.

3. Follow up on the FOI (freedom of information) request from @transpire_southend More Info here. Support queer young people. Talk to them. Listen to their concerns. Let them know this decision doesn’t reflect their worth. If you're a teacher, youth worker, or carer, stock affirming books in your own space.

4. Amplify this issue: Share this statement. Share news articles. Attend council meetings. Let the public know this matters.

Dover Pride’s commitment
We are proud to stand with trans and queer people across Kent and beyond. We believe in a world where everyone is free to be themselves, free to read about themselves, and free to thrive.

We are currently discussing next steps of action, which could include; fundraisers for books, making a platform to give to young queer people who could be directly affected by this. 

This is not just about books. It’s about whose stories are allowed to be told.

We will not let those stories be silenced.