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Chicago is a People of Color city with a multicultural future.
51st Ward Books is committed to partnering with like-minded communities to expand access to culturally responsive and culturally affirming literature for children. This is more than just business– it is a mission to ensure that Black, Latinx, American Indian, Asian/Pacific American, LGBTQIA+, and disabled children see their identities; their language, skin, and culture reflected back to them from the bookshelf.
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Through the JustKids Book Festival we aim to:
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Partner with and feature local authors and illustrators to offer storytimes, art-making, workshops for parents and educators, and FUN!
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Offer families and community members access to carefully curated experience featuring authors, illustrators, and books for children and youth that prioritize storytelling by and for People of Color, LGBTQIA+, and disabled communities.
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Host a book expo and marketplace featuring local, independent authors, and a range of culturally-relevant, anti-bias, and anti-bias children’s texts. Many of these books will be available in Bilingual or Spanish formats.
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Unite our diverse city through a shared love of books and reading. Let's read together and raise more JustKids.
Check it Out
RSVP Closed Walk-Ins Permitted as capacity allows
Sponsors & Collaborators (as of 6/3/22):
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51st Ward Books
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Brilliant Biliterates
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Chicago Review Press
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Chicago Teachers Union
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Chicago Teachers Union Foundation
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Children's Guide to Rap
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Elmhurst Mental Health Services
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Fig Factor Media
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Francis W. Parker School
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Gary Comer Middle School
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Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago & Northwest Indiana
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Haymarket Books
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Independent Publishers Group (IPG)
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La Clínica
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Nonku's Corner
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No Sé Discos
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Pete's Market
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Roots & Shoots
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Storytime with Kayla
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What I Tell Myself First
*Click their logos to learn more!




