Robin D.G. Kelley: historian and scholar of social movements in the U.S.
Roderick Ferguson: scholar of race and queer social movements
Kristen Reynolds: scholar of race, anti-blackness, and technology

According to data from the American Library Association, about 90% of all books challenged in 2022 were part of multi-title bans—many organized by political advocacy groups attempting to censor content that doesn’t fit their political, moral, or religious agenda. Among those most challenged are books featuring characters of color or including themes of race, racism, or LGBTQIA+ identity. 

Join a panel of scholars of African American history, queer studies, and cultural studies for a conversation about the intersection of freedom of expression, attempted book bans, and their implications on fostering diverse perspectives. In what ways does book banning impact marginalized authors and perspectives differently as compared to more mainstream voices? What role do institutions, such as libraries and schools, play in resisting or perpetuating book-banning practices, and how can these institutions contribute to a more inclusive literary landscape? 

Panelists will discuss historical parallels between current book-banning efforts and those of the past, as well as how book banning affects educational environments and the consequences those bans have on students’ understanding of social issues, critical thinking, and our future. 

In-person space is limited. Registration required.

Presented in partnership by the Institute for Advanced Study at the University of Minnesota as part of IAS Thursdays: (In)Justice series and the East Side Freedom Library as part of the Love and Solidarity Series.