This week our neighbors to the north are celebrating Freedom to Read Week! Much like Banned Books Week in the U.S., this is “an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom, which is guaranteed them under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.” The week is organized by the Book and Periodical Council and sponsored by a host of arts, publishing, and library organizations.
Readers will find many familiar titles on the list of publications that have been challenged or banned in Canada. Events around the country this week include contests, read-outs, panels and debates, and book displays in libraries and bookstores. And to get you in the Freedom to Read spirit, here are some Canadian stories we’ve covered in the past few years:
- Criminal Charges Dropped in Canada Customs Manga Case
- Canadian “Anti-comics” Law Used to Prosecute Website Owner
- Yertle the Turtle Quote Again Allowed in BC Schools
- Online Retailer Won’t Send Some Manga to Canada Because of Customs Seizures
- Bodily Function Books Popular With Kids, Controversial With Parents
Help support CBLDF’s important First Amendment work in 2015 by visiting the Rewards Zone, making a donation, or becoming a member of CBLDF!
Contributing Editor Maren Williams is a reference librarian who enjoys free speech and rescue dogs.