Why I Won’t Be Canceling Dr. Seuss

In the past few weeks, I’ve seen quite a stir about Dr. Seuss and the racist nature of some of his works. I have seen the examples and read the things and trolled the posts. This is my response.

Let me be clear: racism is wrong.

I won’t, however, be “canceling” Dr. Seuss in my home or in my teaching. *GASP* “How can you be so racist and un-woke as to continue using the material generated by a racist in your educational toolbox?!” There are a few reasons, actually. These are my top two.

1. While there definitely are elements of racism depicted in some of his books, racism does not define his body of work. Ask any English-speaking human who can read and they could probably recount to you some silly missive they memorized from a Seuss book. His work is more prominently defined by silliness. The man MADE UP half the words in his books! Let’s use some critical thinking and discernment to hold these two things in tension: his unfortunate mistakes and his incredible contributions.
2. If we cancel every single creative person once their flaws/faults/sins come to light, we might as well just cancel the entire world of creatives. News Flash: NOBODY IS PERFECT. If we let Cancel Culture have its way, we will be living out the nightmare of Fahrenheit 451 with book burning parties…and Dr. Seuss’ books will be the kindling to start the fire. As I said above, his mistakes and contributions can be held in tension–the one should not negate the other.
3. Bonus: I do not believe book banning is ever the answer. I do not support the banning of any book, even the ones which are absolute trash. Censoring based on audience, yes. Banning, no.

I have faults. I have said and done things I am ashamed of and regret but unfortunately cannot erase them from history. I hope that, instead of Cancel Culture waging war on me, I can be given grace and room to continue growing and learning. Much as I try to do for others. Yes, even the ones I disagree with!

So let me ask you: Where do YOU stand on the Seuss debacle? Is he canceled in your book? (see what I did there 😉 ) Or will you continue to happily twist your tongue around his nonsensical words?