Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 27
Oregon Counselor Faces Backlash Over Book for 5- to 9-Year-Olds as District Distances Itself
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 27

Oregon Counselor Faces Backlash Over Book for 5- to 9-Year-Olds as District Distances Itself

1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 27

Summary

  • Madi Bourdon, a counselor at Milwaukie High School & Academy of the Arts, drew online backlash after a clip promoting her children’s book on “chosen family” resurfaced on X.
  • The book, “A Kids Book About Chosen Family,” is marketed for ages 5 to 9 and says children can pick people who make them feel “the safest and bravest,” biological relatives or not.
  • Conservative accounts including Libs of TikTok and Courage Is A Habit said the message encourages children to reject parents who do not affirm their gender identity, a claim amplified by Bourdon’s remarks about legislation and rhetoric targeting marginalized communities.
  • Milwaukie High School’s district said it does not comment on private activities of individuals and had no involvement in books authored or published in a personal capacity.

Insights

What does the debate over a kids' book reveal about our changing definition of family?
Does a 'chosen family' empower vulnerable kids or teach them to replace their own parents?
Should a counselor's private book be separate from her public school job?