KNOXVILLE - "When I heard about the banning of Alex Haley's Roots: The Saga of an American Family from Knox County Schools, I was extremely disappointed, but sadly, not completely surprised," said Tennessee Representative McKenzie.  "Roots won a Pulitzer Prize and became a cultural touchstone that inspired and united millions of Americans. I knew that taking it out of the hands of thousands of schoolchildren in Knox County would be a grave injustice."

During the current 114th General Assembly, McKenzie sponsored HB2434, which would prohibit the removal of books like Roots until a final determination can be made about its appropriateness for the age and maturity level of the students able to access it and if the material is consistent with the educational mission of the school.  He also filed the "Freedom to Read Act" (HB1051) that would keep important books like Roots in the hands of those who can learn from it.

"I am often reminded of the importance of Mr. Haley's pivotal works when I see the statue of him in Alex Haley Heritage Square in Knoxville and also his significant contributions to the University of Tennessee, where many of his historical documents are housed.  The state legislature even designated Roots as one of the first 10 official Tennessee state books in 2024."

"While many in this country and here in Tennessee are trying to erase history," said McKenzie, "I am encouraged by the decision of Knox County School Superintendent Dr. Jon Rysewyk, with the support of many in the Knox County community, to immediately return Roots to school shelves where it belongs and allow our students access to this essential work."