The Importance of Reconstruction in Today’s Classrooms & Libraries

Join a critical webinar on Wednesday, January 19th, 2022 at 4:00 PM EST about using children’s books to teach Reconstruction. Reconstruction was a brief period in American history from 1865–1877 when efforts were made to confer citizenship rights on the 4.4 million African Americans emancipated from slavery as well as approximately 500,000 African Americans who were already freed from slavery.

We will discuss and demonstrate teaching about this critical period in U.S. history with New Visions Award Honor Michelle Coles (Black Was the Ink) and New Voices Award-winning author Rita Lorraine Hubbard (Hammering for Freedom) to support educators’ approach in teaching this complex, under-taught historical period, with a special focus on accuracy, cultural responsiveness, and connections to today. We will also discuss Michelle and Rita’s inspiration for their books, respective research about Reconstruction and important American history, and make classroom and societal connections that will be relevant in educational settings.