Forty-seven percent of the books being challenged in the U.S. are those that involve the experiences of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals (ALA, 2024). Despite New Jersey ‘s curricular and legislative mandates requiring the inclusion of LGBTQ+ identities in P-12 schools, LGBTQ+ books are still being challenged. This presentation will introduce elementary grade appropriate LGBTQ+ trade books, make connections to literacy and social studies standards, and help empower practicing teachers to use these books in their classrooms.
