
NCAC to Host Nationwide Right to Read Night
The National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) will host “Right to Read Night” during Banned Books Week, Oct. 5–11, 2025. The program seeks to explore the dangers of censorship while defending intellectual and literary freedom through community conversations and events.
To frame discussions, NCAC has selected Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson, which was a finalist for the 2008 National Book Award. The novel tells the story of an enslaved teenager’s struggle for freedom during the American Revolution and is one of the many titles targeted by ongoing book censorship throughout the country.
“The right to read is fundamental to a free society. We cannot allow voices, especially those telling stories of struggle and resilience, to be silenced,” said Christine Emeran, director of the NCAC’s Youth Free Expression Program.
Local organizers interested in hosting an event for Right to Read Night can explore NCAC’s toolkit, while those searching for local opportunities can click here.