Public debate intensified at the Broward County School Board meeting on August 25, 2026, as concerns arose regarding school closures. Meanwhile, Broward County Public Schools has canceled an event featuring Vashti Harrison, a New York Times best-selling author, following criticism of her past remarks on Israel and Gaza.
Harrison, acclaimed for her children’s books celebrating Black history and self-love, was to appear at a parent event on September 17 at the African American Research Library & Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale. The district announced the cancellation of the event, citing concerns over her previous statements, with plans to reschedule with a different speaker. The event was part of the Parent Training Academy series, aimed at helping parents support their children’s learning.
Broward County Public Schools expressed its unawareness of Harrison’s past comments at the time of her selection. The decision followed public scrutiny from a blog titled “After October 7” by journalist Kevin Deutsch, who highlighted Harrison’s “antizionist advocacy.” Deutsch brought attention to a 2024 Instagram post where Harrison signed a letter to President Biden demanding a ceasefire in Gaza.
The letter criticized the Israeli government for its military actions in Gaza post Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the loss of approximately 1,200 Israeli lives. The movement, known as #kidlit4ceasefire, has condemned the situation in Gaza, though its characterization as genocide faces opposition from Jewish Zionist groups.
The letter claimed that more than 31,000 Palestinians, including 12,000 children with a median reported age of five, were casualties in the conflict. Many children remain unaccounted for, believed to be trapped under rubble.
This coverage is supported financially by Trish and Dan Bell, South Florida’s Jewish and Muslim communities, and the Mohsin and Fauzia Jaffer Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners. The Miami Herald retains editorial authority over the content. Originally published on September 4, 2026, Senior Religion Reporter Lauren Costantino contributes to the Miami Herald with backing from the financial support of Trish and Dan Bell and donors from the Jewish and Muslim communities in South Florida. Costantino has been with the Herald since 2021, enhancing audience engagement through various initiatives.