In anticipation of banned books week from September 22-28, 2024, let’s acknowledge that efforts to restrict the availability of books featuring Black, Queer, and other underrepresented people, themes, and history are at an all-time high.
What isn’t widely known about book bans is the impact of the chilling effect, where librarians and teachers have to worry about bringing in any diverse titles even when they know the books would help their students and patrons.
In turn, the chilling effect disproportionally impacts independent presses, many of whom are mission driven and focus on publishing voices from the very communities who are targeted by the current politically motivated runaway train of book banning. The drop in sales to schools and libraries for many of these publishers has been significant, and this impacts creators both financially and emotionally. Most of all, book banning hurts kids–further marginalizing those with less privilege, access, and representation.
In response to all this, the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and EveryLibrary Institute have teamed up to spread light and inclusive books to readers in communities across the US impacted by the chilling effect of book bans. For every book banned or challenged between September 1 and September 30, 2024, WE ARE STRONGER THAN CENSORSHIP will buy two or more books from independent publishers and donate them via regional freedom to read organizations and national partners—turning negativity and fear into positivity and love in the form of books.
LEE & LOW BOOKS INC. is proud to partner with WE ARE STRONGER THAN CENSORSHIP. Our beloved award-winning picture book When Aidan Became a Brother by KyleLukoff and illustrated by Kaylani Juanita will be one of the twenty titles featured, purchased, and distributed through the program.
⭐ Together, the text and pictures create a heartfelt celebration of love that will be an ideal selection for trans children and for any who are expecting a new sibling." —Booklist, starred review
To learn more about WE ARE STRONGER THAN CENSORSHIP, visit wearestrongerthancensorship.org.
