Seeing diverse identities and perspectives reflected in literature can help youth feel heard, seen, and confident, and can teach children empathy and compassion for the experiences of others. Unfortunately, the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom is reporting the highest number of book challenges reported since the American Library Association began collecting data over 20 years ago.
Now, more than ever, it is important to take a stand and be an active protector of intellectual freedom. Check out the links below to see how you can get involved.
The Zinn Education Project offers several opportunities to get involved in the fight against censorship. Look through their site to find resources to draw attention to the issue, take action, and teach young people about banned history.
The American Library Association and its Office for Intellectual Freedom provide information on current book bans and how to report and defend against censorship. They also have free downloads to help start your own campaign.
Unite Against Book Bans, a national initiative, offers a tool kit that provides information on how to attend public meetings or plan peaceful protests. It also has talking points, sample letters, and free downloadable graphics.
The National Coalition Against Censorship has a toolkit for students and their parents to fight schoolbook bans
The Little Free Library organization has created a national map overlaying areas with book bans and Little Free Libraries that share banned books. Take a look at the map, visit a Little Free Library, and donate or borrow a banned book.
Getting involved can work. Check out this success story.
Understand what’s happening at our Naval Academy right now.
Read Banned Books 