For centuries, literature that dares to examine difference or “otherness” has been ridiculed, challenged, or outright banned. Join Professor Audrey Antee for a look at what trends in banning say about cultural anxieties about race, nationality, religion, and sexual orientation in various eras, and how in contemporary YA literature characters’ sexuality and sexual orientation have become that “otherness” that many fear and reject. Community advocate AnnaMcDaniel will be on hand to discuss the importance of representation for the LGBTQ+ community.

Guest speaker Anna McDaniel is an advocate for education and LGBTQ+ communities. As a young person, Anna first sought connection to her LGBTQ+ community through a multi-year volunteer project at a free and low-cost HIV clinic in her hometown. As a former high school English teacher, she is particularly passionate about creating brave classrooms – classrooms that reflect, honor, and empower the diverse experiences of all students. She is currently working for an education nonprofit and pursuing a Master of Public Policy at Jacksonville University.”

This event is part of a week-long series of Banned Books Week events hosted by the LLC and will take place in A1058 at FSCJ's Downtown Campus.