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Banned Books & Libraries Under Attack Conference

Banned Books & Libraries Under Attack Conference: Event Recap

On October 10, 2024, the Banned Books & Libraries Under Attack Conference convened at Cleveland State University College of Law, bringing together advocates, educators, and legal professionals dedicated to defending intellectual freedom amid rising censorship efforts.

Thank you to all who joined us for the Banned Books & Libraries Under Attack Conference held at Cleveland State University College of Law!

This pivotal event gathered experts and advocates committed to protecting intellectual freedom and the right to access diverse ideas within our libraries.

For those who couldn’t attend or want to revisit these powerful conversations, you can view the full event recording here.

In recent years, we have witnessed a troubling rise in efforts to ban books and restrict access to information in libraries across the country. These actions not only threaten intellectual freedom but also undermine the democratic values that underpin our society. Educators and librarians, who are on the front lines of this battle, face unprecedented challenges from extremists who seek to limit free access to information and ideas.

Acknowledgments:

We extend our sincere gratitude to Cleveland State University College of Law for hosting this pivotal event, as well as to our partner organizations and esteemed speakers who shared their expertise, perspectives, and proven strategies for combating censorship and advocating for intellectual freedom in communities nationwide.

Their dedication to safeguarding intellectual freedom created an ideal setting for these essential discussions.

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Event Highlights:

The conference featured insightful discussions on the surge in book banning and strategies to uphold First Amendment rights and engaged in meaningful dialogue exploring the current state of book censorship and effective methods to combat discriminatory legislation.

Distinguished Speakers:

  • Ashley Hope Pérez: An acclaimed author and professor of world literatures at The Ohio State University, Pérez shared her experiences with censorship, particularly concerning her novel Out of Darkness, which has faced challenges despite its critical acclaim.
  • Dan Novack: A distinguished lawyer specializing in First Amendment and media law, Novack discussed legal battles against censorship and the protection of press freedoms. As a member of Penguin Random House’s legal team and a founding member of Penguin Random Houses Intellectual Freedom Task Force, he provided insights into navigating complex legal landscapes to preserve free expression.
  • Deborah Caldwell Stone: As the Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation and Director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, Deborah addressed the increasing challenges librarians face regarding materials censorship, internet filtering, and privacy.
  • Cheryl L. Davis: General Counsel of the Authors Guild, Ms. Davis oversees the organization’s legal affairs, including managing activities related to book banning and diversity in publishing. She shared her expertise on the legal implications of censorship and the importance of protecting authors’ rights.
  • Skip Dye: Vice President of Library Sales at Penguin Random House and Founding Chairman of the company’s Intellectual Freedom Task Force, Skip discussed the publishing industry’s role in supporting libraries and combating censorship.
  • Lee Fisher: Dean and Joseph C. Hostetler-Baker Hostetler Chair in Law at Cleveland State University College of Law, Dean Lee Fisher emphasized the importance of legal education and the role that lawyers can play in defending intellectual freedom.
  • Leila Green Little: A rural mom from and intellectual freedom advocate from Texas, Leila shared her personal experiences fighting against censorship in her local public library system since 2021. As the plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging her county’s decision to remove books deemed objectionable, she highlighted the grassroots efforts necessary to combat censorship.
  • Dana Jones: Representative for District 30A in the Maryland Legislature, Jones discussed legislative efforts to protect access to literature and the role of policymakers in defending the freedom to read.
  • Katie Paris: Founder of Red Wine & Blue, Paris shared insights on mobilizing suburban women to advocate against book bans and promote inclusive education.
  • Katrice Williams: Legal Director at Freedom to Learn Advocates, Williams provided a legal perspective on combating censorship and protecting intellectual freedom through policy and advocacy.
  • Doron Kalir: Clinical Professor of Law at Cleveland State University College of Law, Kalir discussed constitutional implications of book bans and the importance of legal challenges in preserving First Amendment rights.
  • Katie Schwartzmann: Director of the First Amendment Clinic at Tulane Law School, Schwartzmann offered expertise on defending free speech and addressing legal challenges related to censorship.

 

JOIN THE FIGHT: OUR NATION’S EDUCATORS AND LIBRARIANS NEED YOUR HELP

While the success of this conference has energized our efforts, the fight against book banning and censorship is far from over. Across communities, challenges to intellectual freedom persist, threatening access to diverse viewpoints and stifling free expression. Now, more than ever, we must remain vigilant and united in defending these essential rights.

Our children and communities deserve the freedom to learn and Freedom to Learn Advocates is committed to ensuring that everyone has the right to access information and ideas.

The fight against censorship requires our collective effort. We encourage you to join us and:

  • Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on legislative developments and advocacy opportunities.
  • Engage with Us: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to join the conversation and amplify the fight against book bans.
  • Support Our Mission: Consider making a donation to help us continue our advocacy efforts. Your contribution enables us to protect libraries, challenge censorship, and uphold the right to read freely.

Together, we can ensure that every reader has the freedom to choose what they read and that libraries remain vibrant spaces for exploration and growth.

 

 

 

 

 

Join us!

Help keep books in libraries and schools. With your support FTLA will continue to fight censorship and work tirelessly to ensure books and education are celebrated and protected rather than banned. Sign up to learn more about what we are up to and how you can help us by becoming an advocate in your community!