More Than a Game: Race, Gender, and Politics in Sports

About this book

Sports has never been only about what takes place on the playing field. Author and sports fan Matt Doeden explores past and current controversies including black boxer Jack Johnson's fight with the "Great White Hope" Tommy Burns, Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's color barrier, Muhammad Ali's refusal to fight in the Vietnam War, Colin Kaepernick's protests, #MeToo and the US gymnastics team, and much more. Doeden weaves in information about Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement, Black Lives Matter, and other essential background young readers will need. This book is sure to engage everyone interested in sports, history, and civil rights.

Censorship history

In 2024, "More Than a Game: Race, Gender, and Politics in Sports" by Matt Doeden was banned at the school level in several districts across the United States, primarily due to its discussions of race and politics in sports. The bans were often initiated by parents and community members who expressed concerns during school board meetings, leading to formal complaints that prompted reviews of the book's content. As of late 2024, the book remains contested in various districts, with some school boards upholding the bans while others are considering reinstatement following public outcry and advocacy from organizations supporting educational freedom.

Bans

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