A conversation about the freedom to write, publish and read children and YA books between three Rhode Island authors.

What stories are our youngest readers not hearing, and why? From bias in the publishing industry to the pressures of self-censorship to book bans, writers who publish for kids and young adults have faced increasing barriers in the book industry. Thanks to the recently-passed Freedom to Read bill, Rhode Island is one of only 13 states protecting the ability of writers, readers, librarians, educators and booksellers to write, read, publish and make books available without interference, yet local writers still face censorship in 37 states.

On Sat, Dec 13 from 1-3pm Rhode Island authors Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie, Cathy G. Johnson, and Padma Venkatraman will join LitArts RI Executive Director Christina Bevilacqua for a conversation about their own experiences with censorship and targeted attacks on their work, the growing threats to Americans’ unfettered access to books, and how to best advocate for freedom to read throughout our communities and our nation.

Learn more about the Freedom to Read legislation here.

This event is free and open to the public but seating is limited and registration is required.

This event is made possible in part by funding from Providence Tourism Council.

Website: www.litartsri.org