Staff Report
The Roberts Family Development Center (RFDC) joined the nationwide Children’s Defense Fund’s Day of Social Action (NDSA) to address the growing issue of book banning. The July event, held at River City High School in West Sacramento, brought together scholars and community members to celebrate reading and learning while highlighting the importance of intellectual freedom.
RFDC co-founder Derrell Roberts emphasized the significance of reading for the communities RFDC serves.
“As they say, ‘any book worth banning is a book worth reading,’” Roberts said.
The organization’s six-week Freedom Schools summer session focuses on exposing students to diverse literature often censored elsewhere.
Derrell Roberts, co-founder of the Roberts Family Development Center, organized the event to address the issue of book banning. Roberta Alvarado, OBSERVER 
Garth Lewis, the Yolo County Superintendent of Schools, was on hand to fight against banning books. Roberta Alvarado, OBSERVER 
Quilter Khristel Johnson proudly stands near the display titled “Honoring the African American Experience through quilted tapestries!” Johnson was in administration as a director of 23 charter schools and has been quilting for 15 years. Roberta Alvarado, OBSERVER
The NDSA event featured a vibrant Harambee Rally, followed by youth spoken word performances, guest speakers, and interactive activities. By combining celebration and education, RFDC aimed to raise awareness about the impact of book banning on young minds and the importance of voting for representatives who support intellectual freedom.
“Reading is a crucial part of access for the communities we serve,” Roberts said. “Book banning not only limits access to diverse ideas but also undermines the fundamental right to freedom of expression.”
Support for this Sacramento OBSERVER article was provided to Word In Black (WIB) by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. WIB is a collaborative of 10 Black-owned media that includes print and digital partners.