Cumberland City Council in Sydney faced significant controversy following its decision to ban the book “Same-Sex Parents” by Holly Duhig from local libraries. The decision, championed by councillor Steve Christou, was narrowly passed with a vote of six to five. This action drew criticism from across the community, including the NSW premier Chris Minns who described the ban as “ridiculous.” The ban has been criticized for potential discrimination and possible breaches of the Libraries Act.

In response to the backlash, four Labor councillors have lodged a rescission motion in hopes of overturning the ban. The motion has garnered support in the form of a petition with nearly 27,000 signatures. Councillor Diane Colman expressed optimism about reversing the decision due to widespread community and governmental opposition.

Meanwhile, Maya Newell, a filmmaker and LGBTQ+ advocate, has publicly spoken against the council’s decision, arguing that such bans contribute to a culture war and infringe on basic human rights. Newell, who was raised by lesbian mothers, emphasized the importance of representation in literature for children from diverse family backgrounds and the broader role of libraries in promoting inclusivity and democracy.

These events have unfolded amid Christou’s admission of not having read the book he proposed to ban, escalating the controversy as council elections approach in September.