Although the Texas Legislature passed a measure prohibiting sexually explicit books in all public schools, Fort Worth Independent School District still includes a sexually explicit book on their library shelves. 

A tweet from the popular social media group Libs of TikTok reveals that Daggett Middle School’s library catalog still shows the book “Gender Queer” is available for students to check out. 

The book, labeled as “adult only” on the library website, discusses topics such as chest binders, masturbation, sex toys, gay sex, and oral sex. The book also depicts explicit images throughout the book. For example, two adolescents are depicted performing sex acts on each other as well as the details of an explicit conversation the author had with her sister about masturbation.

One concerned citizen commented on the tweet, saying, “It’s labeled adult only! So, why is it in a middle school?” 

Brady Gray, president of Texas Family Project, told Texas Scorecard parents must stay alert to what is in their children’s schools until HB 900 takes effect.

“Gender Queer” is one of the worst in a long list of obscene and pornographic books that target children. Sadly, it has become normal to find this content in government schools all across the state. The attacks on the innocence of our children is an assault on the family, and Texas Family Project has worked tirelessly to see it put to an end. We look forward to HB 900 going into effect, but parents should stay diligent and demand to know what their children are being taught and exposed to in school.

Last month, Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law House Bill 900, which will raise public school library standards. The measure requires vendors to rate their books regarding sexually explicit material and bans books deemed sexually explicit. The measure takes effect September 1, 2023.

Fort Worth ISD’s director of library media services has not responded to a request for comment.

Emily Medeiros

Emily graduated from the University of Oklahoma majoring in Journalism. She is excited to use her research and writing skills to report on important issues around Texas.

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