Award-winning author George Johnson joins Kimberlé Crenshaw to discuss book bans in the US and George's experience as one of the most banned Black authors. They explore the power of representation, the importance of challenging stereotypes, and the need for marginalized stories to be heard.
The Books Unbanned Tour aims to bring attention to the most banned books in the US and promote diversity in literature and education.
George Johnson's memoir, All Boys Aren't Blue, addresses the lack of representation for queer black individuals, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and love within black families.
Deep dives
The Books on Banned Tour
The African American Policy Forum is launching the second year of their Books on Banned Tour, which focuses on books by people of color and books about racial justice. The tour aims to bring attention to the most banned books in the United States and promote the importance of diversity in literature and education. The tour features panel discussions, performances, and events across the country, raising awareness about the impact of book banning on marginalized communities.
All Boys Aren't Blue
George M. Johnson is an award-winning author, executive producer, and the most banned Black author in the United States. Their book, All Boys Aren't Blue, is a memoir about growing up black and gay in America. It addresses the lack of representation for queer black individuals and aims to provide young adults, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community, with literature that affirms their identities. The book explores the intersectionality of race and sexuality and the importance of acceptance and love within black families.
The Threat to Black Queer History
The podcast episode discusses the current threat to black queer history and the efforts to censor books that tell these stories. It highlights the connection between book banning and the broader attacks on critical race theory (CRT), intersectionality, and other frameworks that challenge the idea of a perfect America. The episode emphasizes the importance of fighting back against censorship and preserving the stories and experiences of black queer individuals.
The Power of Intersectional Storytelling
The podcast episode explores the power of intersectional storytelling and the challenges faced in telling stories that encompass race, sexuality, and gender identity. It discusses how certain narratives are targeted for suppression, while others are overlooked even within ally spaces. The episode emphasizes the need to embrace intersectionality and tell stories that reflect the complexities and experiences of marginalized communities. It also highlights the role of literature and media in empowering individuals, fostering understanding, and challenging societal norms.
To kick off Banned Book Week, host Kimberlé Crenshaw (@sandylocks) is joined by award-winning author George Johnson (@IamGMJohnson). They talk about the book bans that are sweeping the US, and George's new reality as one of the most banned Black authors in America. They also discuss the triumph of George's memoir, All Boys Aren't Blue, and unpack why George's work is needed now more than ever.
Join AAPF for the second year of the Books Unbanned Tour, kicking off at the Brooklyn Book Festival on Oct 1st. Register for the panel discussion and free afterparty here: http://bit.ly/BKBF23
Learn more about how you can help preserve our freedom to learn here: www.freedomtolearn.net
Produced by Nicole Edwards and the team at the African American Policy Forum.
Mixing by Sean Dunnam
Music by Blue Dot Sessions
Follow us at @intersectionalitymatters, @IMKC_podcast
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