February 17, 2025 — Julianne Moore has expressed deep disappointment after learning that her children’s book, Freckleface Strawberry, has been censored under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
Taking to Instagram on Sunday, the Oscar-winning actress revealed that her 2007 book, illustrated by LeUyen Pham, was removed from schools within the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) as part of Trump’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the armed services.
“It is a great shock for me to learn that my first book, Freckleface Strawberry, has been banned by the Trump Administration from schools run by the Department of Defense,” Moore wrote.
A Story of Acceptance Now Deemed Controversial
Freckleface Strawberry is a semi-autobiographical children’s book about a seven-year-old girl who struggles with her freckles but ultimately learns to embrace her uniqueness. Moore emphasized that she wrote the book for children, including her own, to remind them that everyone faces challenges but is united by humanity and community.
The book has been cherished by readers for nearly two decades, with many praising it as uplifting and inspiring. The story was even adapted into a musical, which gained widespread appreciation, including from TikTok users who credited it with having a profound impact on them.
Moore’s Personal Connection to DoDEA Schools
Moore expressed her shock over the ban, particularly because she herself attended a DoDEA school in Frankfurt, Germany, when her father, Peter Moore Smith, was stationed there as part of his U.S. Army service.
“It is galling for me to realize that kids like me, growing up with a parent in the service and attending a DoDEA school, will not have access to a book written by someone whose life experience is so similar to their own,” Moore stated.
She also questioned what was so controversial about a picture book that led to its removal from military-run schools.
Industry Reactions and Trump Administration’s Justification
The ban has sparked outrage among public figures. Andy Cohen criticized it as an attack on free speech, while Halle Berry called the situation frightening and expressed her support for Moore.
A DoDEA spokesperson, Will Griffin, defended the book removals, stating that they were part of a review of materials to ensure compliance with Trump’s executive orders aimed at eliminating what he calls “radical indoctrination” in schools. Books deemed to promote gender ideology or discriminatory equity ideology were being examined.
“DoDEA is reviewing its current policies and instructional resources to ensure compliance with Executive Orders and Department of Defense guidance,” Griffin said.
Moore concluded her statement by condemning the ban on books, calling it a betrayal of free speech and expression—values enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
