Play is Equity!: The Role Picture Books Play in Creating a Just Society for Our Most Vulnerable Readers

The depiction of play in children’s literature and school curricula plays a key role in creating an antiracist and equitable classroom, school, and society for our most vulnerable readers. For all children, and in particular BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ children, the representation of play can nurture social and emotional development and support mental health or reinforce sexist, racist, and homophobic attitudes and behaviors. In this panel, we will examine how to disrupt antiquated and problematic representations of play and share literature that empowers children through play and entitles them to validation and joy

No Voice Too Small: #DisruptTexts and Empower Youth Through Powerful Protagonists in Diverse Picture Books

How do we as authors, educators, and writers combat the cisgender, heteronormative, white narrative that still dominates education? Part of the solution is promoting texts that disrupt hegemony and represent diversity and inclusivity. Six authors will discuss how picture books that depict role-model protagonists taking charge of their destinies empower our children and students to do the same. When we provide children with an inclusive curriculum in a supportive classroom and library community, encourage their spirited and creative responses, and champion their activism, we protect their mental health and teach them how to rise above challenges and triumph