vailsymposium

Nancy & Stephen Dowdle, Carole & Pete Feistmann, Laine & Merv Lapin, Jeanne & Dale Mosier, Mary Pat & Keith Rapp underwrite the Conversations on Controversial Issues series

PEN America, a first amendment watchdog group focused on the freedom to write, reported more book banning activity in the fall of 2022 than all of the previous year. Recent NPR/Ipsos polling found that 64% of Americans oppose book bans by school boards, and 69% oppose book bans by state lawmakers. How do we regulate access to written expression in public institutions like libraries and schools? Who makes the decisions and which voices carry the most weight? What is the role of independent businesses like bookstores and cafes and how should publishers navigate these tumultuous waters?

This panel discussion–which we strive to make balanced and fair–will put the current debate in historical context, describe a charitable interpretation of the stances of the stakeholders and explore a path forward that honors the values of a diverse citizenry.

Please note: This program addresses complex conversations around book banning; as such, many of the books referenced contain adult themes. This program, like many of the books being discussed, is not recommended for kids younger than 16 years old.

Recommended reading available at The Bookworm in Edwards:

“On Censorship: A Public Librarian Examines Cancel Culture in the US” by James LaRue

Click here to view the top banned books in America