In this month’s Freedom to Read Advocate Spotlight, Unite Against Book Bans is honored to feature Melissa Daroff, a recent donor and advocate for the freedom to read. Below, she shares her motivations for joining our efforts to stand up against censorship.
“Every day you read a book you are fighting for the freedom to read—yours and everyone around you. Whether the book holds deep meaning for you or is your happy place on a frustrating day, simply by reading, you are advancing the anti-censorship cause. Keep reading. Keep fighting.”
-Melissa Daroff, Freedom to Read Advocate
Why did you donate to Unite Against Book Bans?
Unite Against Book Bans is a great cause. I believe in the freedom to read and it is disappointing to see continued opposition to ideas and ideologies through the mechanism of censorship. By sharing my philanthropic support, I aim to be a part of promoting the freedom of expression, and specifically the right to read freely, throughout our country and beyond.
Why is the freedom to read important to you?
A love of reading has been a part of my entire life. It was a natural adoption to become a steadfast and lifelong supporter of freedom of speech, starting at a young age. Throughout my life, I have upheld the values of freedom of speech as a cornerstone of a free and democratic society. When we silence one, we silence all.
Why do we need to speak up for the freedom to read?
It’s a short journey from Footloose to Fahrenheit 451. In my opinion, if we do not fight for fairness, equality, and freedom, we will stop enjoying these privileges. I also believe that if those of us who do have these freedoms do not fight for the freedom of others, we risk losing the battle completely.
What is a book that is important to you, and why?
I can’t choose a favorite — there are so many! But I often find myself drawn to dystopian fiction, not for the point of lost causes, but for the vision of hope. Not all, but especially YA dystopias are also wrapped in the triumphs of the few over those who try to oppress the many. Pierce Brown, Veronica Roth, Tahereh Mafi, Sabaa Tahir, Marie Lu, Lois Lowry, Neal Shusterman, Margaret Atwood, and even good old George Orwell: they aren’t just showing us the downfall of society but rather helping us write handbooks to band together and overcome adversity. I can’t get enough of this vibe.