Annie’s Foundation Freedom to Read Pledge

Annie’s Foundation is proud to introduce our Freedom to Read Pledge. This pledge is intended to be presented to candidates running for office, and can also be used by existing representatives to demonstrate their ongoing dedication to the right to read.

The Annie’s Foundation Freedom to Read Pledge will be offered to all school board candidates within the Johnston school district during Banned Books Week (October 1-7).

School Board Candidates participating in the Western Suburb School Board Candidate Meet & Greet on September 20 were all given the Pledge in advance of the event. Watch our social media to find out who signs!

Are you interested in asking your school board candidates to sign the Freedom to Read Pledge? Send an email to contactus@anniesfoundation.com and we’ll send you the pledge and an email template you can use to contact your candidates. As you hear back, share the signed pledges with us and we will keep sharing which school board candidates will fight for our First Amendment rights!

The Annie’s Foundation Freedom to Read Pledge

I commit myself to upholding the fundamental principles of freedom of expression and those rights guaranteed by the First Amendment.

I pledge to protect and promote the freedom to read, recognizing that banning books or limiting access to information is contrary to the values upon which our nation was founded. I understand that public servants have a duty to respect the rights of all citizens to explore ideas and engage in open discourse without censorship.

In accordance with this pledge, I commit to the following principles:

1. Defending Intellectual Freedom: I will support and defend the right of all individuals to seek, receive, and share information and ideas freely, without fear of censorship or retribution.
   Preserving Access to Libraries: I will advocate for strong, accessible public libraries, public schools, and educational institutions that provide diverse materials and foster an environment where reading and learning thrive.
2. Rejecting Censorship and Book Banning: I recognize that censorship undermines the free exchange of ideas and inhibits personal growth; thus, I will oppose attempts to ban or restrict the public’s access to books, publications, or other forms of media based on their content or ideas.
3. Encouraging Inclusivity and Diversity: I will support efforts to ensure that libraries and educational institutions offer a wide range of materials that reflect the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our community members.
4. Standing Against Discrimination: I will work to eliminate discrimination and bias in access to books and resources, recognizing that everyone should have the opportunity to explore literature and ideas.
5. Supporting Library Professionals: Out of respect for their commitment to providing a wide range of viewpoints, I will support the professional judgment of librarians, educators, and other experts in selecting and curating materials.

By taking this pledge, I affirm my dedication to the principles of freedom to read, intellectual freedom, and access to reading materials. If elected, I will commit to defending these principles in my role as an elected official and to safeguarding the right of every citizen to explore, learn, and grow through the power of literature and ideas.

Download Pledge