Panel discusses race and identity in 20th-century children’s literature

University of Oregon’s Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) has one of the largest collections of 20th-century children’s literature in the United States. SCUA is working to preserve and make these materials available. Children’s literature, which often flies under the cultural radar, is a fascinating rubric through which one can understand the ideological tenor of a society. Our collective values, for better or worse, are mirrored back to us in the stories and lessons of our children. Twentieth century children’s literature echoes the radical changes that occurred in American society: at times celebratory, optimistic, and inclusive; and alternately vexing and racist, presenting a white-washed and Eurocentric account of American history. 

On October 28, 2021 at 3 p.m. SCUA will present a virtual panel discussion, cosponsored by the OHC’s Endowment for Public Outreach in the Arts, Sciences and Humanities, which will address the complex issues of race and identity in children’s literature—specifically, who can tell whose story, how do we deal with our racist past, and how we can begin to bring fresh narratives and perspectives to the field? 

Organizer Danielle Mericle, SCUA’s Curator of Visual Resources, says “I am really pleased to facilitate this conversation with contemporary children’s literature authors and scholars about the significance of race and identity in the genre. These creators and critics are leading forces in moving young adult and children’s literature into anti-racism and reframing our understandings of racism in children’s literature history.”

Panel participants include moderator Elizabeth Wheeler, Professor of English and author of Handiland: The Crippest Place on Earth; Kimberly Johnson, UO Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and author of This is My America (watch her UO Today interview); Debbie Reese (Nambé Pueblo), founder, American Indians in Children’s Literature, co-editor of  a young adult adaptation of An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States; and Chenoa (Lummi and S’Klallam) and Keith (Lummi) Egawa, authors and illustrators of children’s literature.

For more information contact Danielle Mericle dmericle@uoregon.edu.