Activist and writer James Baldwin once said, “You think your pains and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read. It was [books] that taught me that the things that tormented me most were the things that connected me with all the people who were alive, or who ever had been alive.” 

In the face of renewed attacks on our civil rights I often think about this quote and turn to books and poetry to learn more about how those who came before us persevered. But I also worry about those who are coming after us. 

In today’s newsletter, we look at how Black literary organizations continue to be underresourced, and how book bans are limiting access to stories about racial justice, disability justice, and gender justice at a time when they are needed the most. 

First, we take a look at my recent piece about the funding challenges faced by Black literary organizations. Then, we look at an article from our Climate Justice editor, Alison Stine, about book bans under the Trump administration. Next, we revisit one of Stine’s pieces from 2023 about book bans targeting Black writers. Finally, check out our collection in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. 

Thanks for reading,

Rebekah Barber
Staff Writer, NPQ