Take Action.
1. Join the Coalition.
There is strength in numbers and we are growing stronger daily. We encourage you to invite friends, family, and colleagues to join the MI Right to Read coalition and be fully prepared to defend First Amendment rights.
2. Post on Social.
Our message center has pre-written posts to help spread the word on social media. Craft your own message in support of the right to read or use any of our examples. Plus, be sure to follow MI Right to Read on Twitter and Facebook and share our posts.
3. Write a Letter.
We encourage you to write a letter to your local media to let them know how much you value your library and librarian. Remember to keep your letter short, personal, positive, and proactive, and take a firm stance on protecting the right to read.
4. Attend a Meeting.
All politics are local. If challenges to materials arise in your library, it is of utmost importance that you show up and vocalize your support of First Amendment rights at your local school, library, and/or municipal board meetings. Elected officials want to hear from voting citizens of their community; showing up to support your library and vocally contesting misinformation and propaganda presented by groups trying to censor books is critical to protecting the right to read.
5. Give a Presentation.
Share a brief presentation on First Amendment rights and book challenges at your local service clubs, like Rotary, Diversity Groups, League of Women’s Voters, Kiwanis, or the Chamber of Commerce to name a few. Present the facts and ask them to join the coalition.
6. Lead a Local Group.
Stay informed about what’s happening in your community. Make connections with your friends and neighbors who support the freedom to read. It’s never too early to get organized.
7. Be an Ally.
Let library workers know they have support in their community. It only takes a quick phone call, email, or thank you note to encourage and support library workers who are dealing with misinformation and personal attacks. Thank them for their work, ask if they need help, and share your contact information so they know they can call on you.
8. Fight Misinformation.
Misinformation about books and authors targeted by book banners spreads easily, especially online. Correct misinformation when you encounter it in conversation, on social media, and elsewhere.
9. Donate.
MI Right to Read provides educational resources and support for librarians and library boards across the state to stop misinformation campaigns and protect the right to read for all Michiganders. Donations of any amount are welcome to the MLA Advocacy Resource Fund to help support this work.
10. Run for Office.
We need elected officials that protect and champion intellectual freedom, privacy, and access for all. We need you! Consider throwing your hat into the ring to run for your school board, your library board, or your city/township council.
BONUS! Order MI Right to Read Gear
Consider purchasing MI Right to Read shirts for your team! Show support and build your own brand by wearing the same color. Profits support the MI Right to Read coalition.