Reading is FUNDAMENTAL! But the current political and socio economic climates are threatening to dictate what can and cant be read in our schools and libraries. With book challenges sweeping the country, especially against comics and graphic novels it’s time to take a stand and defend their inclusion. On Thursday July 21st 2022 at 3pm, join Eisner Award-winning cartoonist Jeff Smith (Bone, RASL, Tuki), Moni Barrette (GNCRT president and co-founder Creators Assemble! Inc.), Jessica Lee (District Librarian, Berkeley Unified School District), Dr. Ashley Dallacqua (Literacy Professor, University of New Mexico), and moderator Jack Phoenix (librarian, Brodart’s Graphic Novel Selector, author of Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More) to learn how community members can support schools and libraries during such challenges, how they can help prevent the challenges to begin with, and why comics and graphic novels are worth defending.

“You may feel that you’re powerless to stop censorship, but you’re wrong!” Said moderator Jack Phoenix. “This panel can provide any member of the public the information needed to stand with librarians and educators and be a true hero!”

“Censorship in schools and libraries has increased dramatically in the past year. These coordinated attacks frequently target books about LGBTQ characters or racial issues.” said Panelist Jessica Lee.” For students, access to these books can often be a lifeline as they begin to understand their own identities. Come join us to see how you can help and be a part of keeping people safe!”

PANEL INFORMATION
Defending Comics in Schools and Libraries, Thursday, 7/21/22, 3:00PM – 4:00PM, Room: Helen Price Reading Room, San Diego Central Library

With book challenges sweeping the country, especially against comics and graphic novels, this panel of experts is here to help. Join Eisner Award-winning cartoonist Jeff Smith (Bone, RASL, Tuki), Moni Barrette (GNCRT president and co-founder Creators Assemble! Inc.), Jessica Lee (District Librarian, Berkeley Unified School District), Dr. Ashley Dallacqua (Literacy Professor, University of New Mexico), and moderator Jack Phoenix (librarian, Brodart’s Graphic Novel Selector, author of Maximizing the Impact of Comics in Your Library: Graphic Novels, Manga, and More) to learn how community members can support schools and libraries during such challenges, how they can help prevent the challenges to begin with, and why comics are worth defending. There will be a brief history of challenges to comics and a Q&A. Room: Helen Price Reading Room.

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