Name: Madonna's "Sex" Book

Date: 1985 - 1995

Location: North America

SubjectNudity

MediumLiterature ,Photography


Artist: Madonna and Downers Grove Public Library

Confronting Bodies: Coalition of Taxpayers

Date of Action: 1992

Specific Location: Downer's Grove, IL

Description of Artwork: "Sex" by Madonna

Description of Incident: Approximately 17 written complaints were filed in the fall of 1992 against "Sex" by Madonna. The matter went before the Board of Directors. Several emotionally charged hearings were held to decide whether the book would remain in the collection.

Results of Incident: A group called "Downers Grove Library Advocates" was formed to combat the censors, and they were successful in aiding the decision to retain the book on the shelves. The board president, despite his dedication to the freedom to read, lost his position on the board.

Source: Library Documents, Lise Bieritz

Submitted By


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