A conversation with The Thread x Education Policy Program

The banning of books and curricula isn’t new, but today’s challenges are piling up during a pivotal time for American education. The scrutiny facing schools, libraries, textbook publishers, and educators is leading to a chilling effect. Worries abound that robust discussion of culturally rich and relevant content will be driven from today’s classrooms. And yet, beyond the unfounded fears of indoctrination spouted on TV, inclusive education materials are actually in great demand across the country. The majority of parents want their children to be exposed to diverse content, according to recent parent surveys. Research shows, too, how student engagement and academic success are linked to learning materials that represent and recognize people’s complex backgrounds and identities, including those different from one’s own. And, of course, the student populations our teachers need to reach are more diverse than ever.

We invite you to join us in a discussion of how we might shift the national discourse from book bans to inclusive education—and why this is critical for equipping generations of young people to handle the complexities of the future. Hear about promising strategies taken by educators, parents, authors, and publishers. Learn how coalitions across dozens of education groups are harnessing digital technologies. Get inspired by examples of new libraries of openly licensed educational materials and platforms for sharing digital books. 

AGENDA

Introduction and opening remarks

- Joe Wilkes, Editor, The Thread

How Diverse Books Set Students Up for Success

- Maika Moulite, Social Media Manager, New America, Howard University PhD student, and young adult author

- Revida Rahman, Parent and Co-founder of One WillCo, Williamson County, TN

- Natasha Tarpley, acclaimed children’s book author and Fellow in the Learning Sciences Exchange

Moderated by Adam Harris, staff writer at The Atlantic and 2021 New America National Fellow

Approaches that Promote Access to Diverse Educational Materials

- Rebecca Henderson, Curriculum Services Supervisor at Westmoreland Intermediate Unit, Pittsburgh, PA

- Ma’asehyahu Isra-Ul, former social studies teacher; professor of education at the University of Richmond; and host of the Leading By History podcast

- Kyle Zimmer, President, CEO, and Co-Founder of First Book, the backbone organization for The Diverse Books for All Coalition

Moderated by Lisa Guernsey, Senior Editor and Strategic Advisor, Education Policy Program, New America

About The Thread: The Thread is New America’s editorial platform and monthly newsletter, connecting people with stories at the intersection of policy, equity, and culture.

Join the conversation online using #NewAmericaEvents