The Freedom to Read: Q&A with North Dakota Author Sarah Vogel
The Freedom to Read: Q&A with North Dakota Author Sarah Vogel
Welcome back to our Q&A series, which shines a spotlight on North Dakota authors and their views on the current wave of book challenges and bans. This week, we are honored to feature Sarah Vogel, a trailblazing attorney and author.
We asked her to share her perspective on the current climate of censorship and what we can all do to support the right to read.
1. What are your thoughts on the growing number of book bans and challenges across the country?
The growing number of book bans across the US is troubling. Limiting access to diverse stories and perspectives undermines intellectual freedom and the critical thinking skills needed in a democratic society. I think it is appropriate for parents and librarians to work together to tailor children's reading to age-appropriate books and literature. But sometimes book bans are used as a blunt instrument by non-parents and non-librarians for purposes that have little to do with reading and thinking. In a healthy democracy, access to a wide range of ideas is essential for informed citizenship and meaningful public discourse.
2. Have any of your books ever been challenged or censored? If so, what was that experience like for you?
As an author, I haven’t personally experienced challenges to my book, The Farmer's Lawyer. However, I've belonged to the ACLU and ACLU ND for most of my adult life. I believe in freedom of speech and assembly.
3. Has this climate of censorship changed how you approach your writing or the topics you choose to explore?
Rather than avoiding difficult topics, I feel more responsibility to write with honesty and courage. When certain perspectives are silenced, it becomes even more important to ensure they’re heard. Storytelling should challenge, question, and expand our understanding—not be confined by fear or politics.
4. What message would you share with those who are challenging or banning books?
I would urge those challenging or banning books to remember that it's okay—and can even be healthy—when books challenge us or make us feel uncomfortable. That discomfort can be a sign of growth, evaluating new perspectives. Books aren’t meant to simply confirm our beliefs; they’re meant to expand our thinking. Silencing stories doesn’t protect society—it weakens it.
5. What can people in North Dakota do to push back against censorship and support the right to read?
Speak up! Pay attention and attend public meetings, speaking out in support of intellectual freedom. Support librarians, educators, and authors who are committed to providing diverse and inclusive materials. Donate challenged books to Little Free Libraries. Talk with others about why the freedom to read matters. Open-minded communities depend on it.
About the Author
Bio: Sarah Vogel is an attorney, advocate, and author of the memoir The Farmer's Lawyer: The North Dakota Nine and the Fight to Save the Family Farm. She is a former North Dakota Commissioner of Agriculture, the first woman in U.S. history to be elected to that position in any state. Her work has focused on advocating for family farmers, women, and Native Americans. Her book was selected by the Library of Congress to represent North Dakota at the National Book Festival. She currently serves as a Member of the Agriculture Subcommittee to the USDA Equity Commission and lives in Bismarck, North Dakota.
Website: https://sarahmvogel.com/