A New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of children's books, Vashti Harrison, was disinvited from a school-sponsored speaking engagement in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, following backlash over a January 2024 social media post expressing support for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) announced Thursday that the entire event, scheduled for September 17 at the African American Research Library & Cultural Center, has been canceled. The district issued an apology, stating it was unaware of Harrison's previous statements at the time of her selection.
"The event, including associated school field trips, is being canceled and will be rescheduled with a different speaker," BCPS said in a statement.
The controversy began after a local reporter, Kevin Deutsch, who operates the Substack "After October 7," highlighted Harrison's participation in a letter sent to then-President Joe Biden. The letter, signed by thousands in the literary and publishing community, called for a ceasefire in Gaza and described the ongoing conflict.
According to the letter's text, it noted that Israeli forces' actions had resulted in over 31,000 Palestinian deaths, with 12,000 of those being children. The letter was sent during a period when Gaza's Ministry of Health reported over 31,000 Palestinians killed and more than 12,000 children among the victims.
Deutsch reportedly questioned BCPS officials about Harrison's selection, the vetting process, and whether public funds were being used for the event. Harrison, 38, is known for her award-winning children's books.
The BCPS event listing invited guests to "Join the Federal Programs department as we welcome the New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of children's books, Vashti Harrison to inspire young minds to dream Big."