Stack of books

Censorship in Schools: Safeguarding the Freedom to Read in Challenging Times

Join educators, community members, and advocates for an evening of dialogue on the history of book banning, and more recently, the removal of four graphic novels from Alberta schools. This event explores what’s at stake when certain stories and identities are removed from classrooms and libraries, and what we can do to protect the freedom to read.

Researchers from the Werklund School of Education and the Faculty of Arts will examine the social, political, and cultural forces behind current book challenges, the impact on young readers, and the importance of access to diverse voices in a democratic society.

Held on the Transgender Day of Remembrance, this event invites reflection on how censorship intersects with representation, safety, and belonging for marginalized communities.

Date: November 20, 2025
Time: 7:00 - 8:30 pm presentation followed by discussion
Location: Heather Edwards Theatre at Contemporary Calgary, 701 11 St SW, Calgary

Registration required.

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Speakers

Photo of Kit Dobson

Dr. Kit Dobson, Professor, Faculty of Arts

Photo of Tonya Callaghan

Dr. Tonya Callaghan, Professor, Werklund School of Education

Jamie Anderson

Jamie Anderson, PhD Candidate, Werklund School of Education

Moderated by:
Dr. Dianne Gereluk, Dean, Werklund School of Education
Dr. Aoife Mac Namara, Dean, Faculty of Arts

This is a collaboration between the Faculty of Arts and the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary, and Contemporary Calgary.