Broward County Public Schools Cancels Event with Author Over Controversial Views

The Broward County School Board meeting on August 25, 2026, featured public comments concerning school closures. However, a decision to cancel an event became the focal point for Broward County Public Schools.

Broward County Public Schools canceled an event featuring Vashti Harrison, an acclaimed author and illustrator, due to criticism of her past statements. Harrison, known for children’s books that celebrate Black history and self-love, was scheduled to speak at the African American Research Library & Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale on September 17.

The school district’s announcement cited concerns about Harrison’s previous statements. They stated the district was unaware of these statements when selecting her as a speaker. Consequently, they canceled the event and associated field trips and planned to reschedule with a different speaker.

A spokesperson from the Broward County Public Library confirmed the cancellation of Harrison’s event, which was part of the district’s Parent Training Academy. This series aims to help parents assist their children’s learning.

Harrison’s book “Big,” which explores a young Black girl’s journey to self-love, was awarded the 2024 Caldecott Medal and Coretta Scott King honor.

Kevin Deutsch, in his blog “After October 7,” highlighted Harrison’s support for a ceasefire in Gaza. He referred to a 2024 Instagram post where Harrison mentioned signing a letter to President Joe Biden, urging for a ceasefire.

The letter questioned Israeli military actions in Gaza following Hamas’s attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant civilian casualties. Thousands of figures in the children’s publishing industry, including writers and editors, signed the letter calling for a permanent ceasefire.

According to the letter, actions in Gaza led to over 31,000 Palestinian deaths, including many children. The movement #kidlit4ceasefire described the situation as a genocide, a term opposed by many Jewish Zionist organizations.

This article received financial support from the Jewish and Muslim communities in South Florida, alongside the Mohsin and Fauzia Jaffer Foundation, Trish and Dan Bell, and Journalism Funding Partners.

Lauren Costantino covers religion for the Miami Herald, funded in part by contributions from these community donors. She has been with the Herald since 2021, engaging wide audiences through multimedia projects. She resides in Miami Beach with her dog, Oliver.