The 1939 Library Sit-In Project Online
In 1939, five young Black men peacefully demonstrated their right to read in the Alexandria public library, which at the time was declared to be for White citizens only. The men entered the library, requested library cards, and were denied. Instead of leaving, they chose books from the shelves and sat down to read, only to be arrested and escorted out by police. Throughout 2023 and 2024, New America will be conducting research, recording video interviews, and developing events, digital exhibits, and teaching materials about this historic protest and what it can teach us today about access to books, educational materials, libraries, and schools. Learn all about the project in this virtual presentation with Jazmyne Owens and Lisa Guernsey.
- Date:
- Thursday, January 16, 2025
- Time:
- 7:00pm - 8:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Online:
- This is an online event. Event URL will be sent via registration email.
- Audience:
- Adults Teen
- Categories:
- Civic Engagement Diversity, Equity & Inclusion History & Local Interest
Lisa Guernsey is director of the Learning Sciences Exchange (LSX) and a senior fellow and strategic advisor in the Education Policy program at New America.
Jazmyne Owens is a senior policy advisor on the PreK–12 team at New America.
