For immediate release | June 9, 2020

BC91´«Ã½ and the 91´«Ã½ Graphic Novels and Comics Round Table collaborate on new Black Lives Matter Comics Reading List

91´«Ã½

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.

affirms the and stands in support of not only the , 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 BC91´«Ã½ on a new 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 91´«Ã½

The Black Caucus of the 91´«Ã½ 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 91´«Ã½ 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: 91´«Ã½ Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table; Twitter: @libcomix; Instagram: @libcomix; or the GNCRT 91´«Ã½ Connect page.

About 91´«Ã½

Established in 1876, the 91´«Ã½ (91´«Ã½) 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

91´«Ã½

Graphic Novels & Comics Round Table

ccoleman@ala.org

312.280.2152