November 18th, 6 – 7 pm EST

This thought-provoking panel discussion will delve into the emotional landscape of activism in the fight against book bans. The panel will examine the complex interplay of emotions that drive individuals to champion intellectual freedom, featuring a renowned author whose work has been challenged, a dedicated librarian on the frontlines of censorship, and a passionate student activist.
From the frustration experienced when ideas are silenced, to the unwavering determination of those defending access to information, to the resilience required to face threats of violence and intimidation, this discussion will provide powerful insights from individuals on the front line of book banning.

This event is free to register and open to all.

Thank you to PEN America and Texas FReadom Fighters for also participating in this discussion

PEN America

PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible.

Founded in 1922, PEN America is the largest of the more than 100 centers worldwide that make up the PEN International network. PEN America works to ensure that people everywhere have the freedom to create literature, to convey information and ideas, to express their views, and to access the views, ideas, and literatures of others. Our strength is our Membership—a nationwide community of more than 4,500 novelists, journalists, nonfiction writers, editors, poets, essayists, playwrights, publishers, translators, agents, and other writing professionals, as well as devoted readers and supporters who join with them to carry out PEN America’s mission.

PEN America’s programs defend writers, artists, and journalists and protect free expression worldwide. This work includes research and reports on topical issues; advocacy on free expression challenges; campaigns on policy issues and on behalf of individual writers and journalists under threat; year-round festivals and events; literary awards; fellowships; and more. pen.org

Texas FReadom Fighters

The Texas based FReadom Fighters started in October 2021.  A group of Texas librarians concerned about rhetoric regarding libraries and librarians in Texas launched a virtual takeover of the #txlege hashtag on November 4, 2021. Over 16,000+ tweets were posted with participants sharing book titles, book covers and personal stories about how those books impacted them as readers.

Since then, the FReadomFighters have hosted Friday actions celebrating books and libraries, held monthly actions for followers to participate in, presented workshops and webinars on intellectual freedom, and worked with community members to ward off censorship. Our work continues to evolve over time.  Due to our grassroots efforts, we are recognized leaders for speaking up, advocating with Tx state legislators, tracking censorship, supporting librarians, and communicating with the media regarding the impacts of censorship, policies on library services for students, and the librarian professionals who serve them. txfreadomfighters.us

We’ll email you the link for the discussion and send a reminder before the event!

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