ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Heated protests erupted outside of an Albuquerque Public Schools board meeting Wednesday evening. Social media posts from a local church and from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups spurred more than a hundred members of the community to show up in protest and to support a speaker that one board member called "problematic." Story continues below Investigation: Migrants held by smugglers escape after APD responds to wrong home Trending: VIDEO: Black Bear plays in the snow in northern New Mexico Community: New Mexico filmmakers highlight the struggles of Hermits Peak Calf Canyon Fire victims Podcast: More Seniors & Fewer Children: The Future of New Mexico "If you support perverted books being in schools, you're either a pervert or an ally of perversion,” said Pastor John Amanchukwu. Amanchukwu, a pastor from North Carolina, is known for advocating for the removal of what he calls "perverse" books in schools. After news of his visit to Albuquerque circulated on social media, both those for and against the issue showed up at an APS school board meeting. Some residents outside shared why they showed up, “to protect the right to literature and the right for children to be respected in schools, regardless of their identity, gender or sexuality,” said Stephanie Garcia."We're not against, you know, the LGBTQ system or any of anybody else's beliefs. All we're asking is that school would be focused on your education,” said Arianna Escalante. Inside the building, board members heard from dozens who spoke during the meeting's public forum who pushed back against "book banning". “That's why I believe any ban on books involving LGBTQ+ content is not only misdirected, but harmful for our kids,” said one speaker. Others argue that banning certain books protects children, "After all, he was eight, how could I expect him to understand these ideas? I no longer viewed my relationship with the school as a partnership but as a threat to my family's religious beliefs." APS said in a statement: While we respect differing opinions on these kinds of topics, we need to be clear: For both the Board of Education and Superintendent Gabriella Blakey, our biggest challenge in Albuquerque Public Schools is improving student outcomes. Clearly, issues such as those brought up during public comment are important. That said, the  board and the district are committed to following the law and ensuring the safety of our children. We appreciate robust public debate, but we’re also aware the overriding issue at APS is making certain our students are proficient in math and reading; are college and career ready; and have the skills needed to operate in the world long after they leave us. That’s the mandate the community has given us, and it’s one we will pursue with passion. APS Board President Danielle Gonzales There were no measures on the school board agenda Wednesday night regarding a book ban.