Comic books have always been political. They are both a reflection and a barometer of our times. From the first appearance of Captain America in March 1941 punching the face of Hitler, to recent titles like I am Alfonso Jones and MARCH - titles tackling police brutality and the life story of Congressman John Lewis - comic books have been and continue to be vitally important avenues to visually tell our stories, to share our histories, and to show experiences and multiple perspectives while engaging both sides of our brain.
The Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table (GNCRT) of the American Library Association affirms the ALA Executive Board's statement and stands in support of not only the Black Caucus of the American Library Association, but also the Black community at large. The United States has a long history of violence against the Black community and white supremacy is laid into the foundation of our societal contract.
In solidarity, the GNCRT is collaborating with our colleagues at the BCALA on a new Black Lives Matter Comics Reading List that aims to draw attention to the Black experiences of the past and present to demand a new future for our Black friends and neighbors. It is our hope that this list will continue to grow and serve as an important resource going forward for educators, parents, and readers of all ages.
We must not stand by in silence as lives continue to be unnecessarily taken. Action and education must happen. Join us. #SayTheirNames #BlackLivesMatter
Have suggestions for additional titles to add to this list?
Please email GNCRT at gncrt@ala.org with the Subject Heading, “Black Lives Matter Reading List” or tag on social with #bcala #libcomix #BlackLivesMatter
About the Black Caucus of the American Library Association
The Black Caucus of the American Library Association serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of African American librarians.
About the Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table
The Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table of the American Library Association is dedicated to supporting library staff in all aspects of engaging with graphic novels and comics, including collection development, programming, and advocacy. For more information connect with GNCRT on Facebook: ALA Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table; Twitter: @libcomix; Instagram: @libcomix; or the GNCRT ALA Connect page.
About ALA
Established in 1876, the American Library Association (ALA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization created to provide leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.
Contact:
Tina Coleman
Staff Liaison
American Library Association
Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table
ccoleman@ala.org312.280.2152
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