Banned Books Week Panel: “Let Freedom Read”

Banned Books Week is back, and it’s time to celebrate the freedom to read while shedding light on the ongoing and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools.

For over four decades, this annual event has united the entire literary community in unwavering support of the right to explore and express ideas, even those that may challenge the status quo or be deemed controversial.

In 2022, the American Library Association (ALA)’s Office for Intellectual Freedom recorded a staggering 1,269 demands for the censorship of library books and resources.

This marked the highest number of attempted book bans since the ALA began tracking censorship data in libraries over two decades ago. Of the record-breaking 2,571 distinct titles targeted for censorship, the majority pertained to or were authored by individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community and Black, Indigenous, and people of color.

Santa Cruz Public Libraries, the Diversity Center of Santa Cruz, the County Office of Education, and UCSC will host a thought-provoking panel discussion on Oct. 6 from 3-5pm at the Downtown Branch Library (224 Church St).

The panel will delve into the rising tide of censorship in our educational institutions and public spaces. The conversation will be guided by local author and journalist Wallace Baine.

The panelists include

• Faris Sabbah, Superintendent of the County Office of Education

•Cynthia Lewis, Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for the Division of Social Sciences, UCSC

•Angela Gates, Librarian at Harbor High School

•Zak Keith, UC Santa Cruz PhD Candidate and Facilitator at The Diversity Center Youth Program

The 2023 Banned Books Week theme, “Let Freedom Read,” encapsulates the core of what’s at stake for our democracy: the very essence of our right to think, speak, and express ourselves freely is intertwined with our right to access a diverse range of written perspectives.

In a world where knowledge is power, preserving the right to read without restriction is paramount. Banned Books Week is an opportunity for our community to unite, celebrate, and reaffirm our commitment to intellectual freedom.

The library invites you to join the conversation and explore the critical issues surrounding the freedom to read and the challenges of censorship.To participate in this enlightening discussion, please register at santacruzpl.libcal.com/calendar/SCPL/BBW23.