More than 400 children’ave books creators have signed a pledge to show “a declaration in support of children.” This group of authors and illustrators banded together to reassure their young readers that they will continue to do work to fight hatred and bigotry.
Some of the participants include Reading Rainbow host LeVar Burton, We Need Diverse Books president Ellen Oh, Newbery medalist Linda Sue Park, picture book creator Mo Willems, and National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson. This written vow was publicly posted on The Brown Bookshelf’s website. Here’s an excerpt:
”For our young readers, we will create stories that offer authentic and recognizable reflections of themselves, as well as relatable insight into experiences which on the surface appear markedly different. We will use our books to affect a world brimming with too many instances of hostility and injustice. We will plant seeds of empathy, fairness and empowerment through words and pictures. We will do so with candor and honesty, but also in the spirit of hope and love.”
(via The Huffington Post)