June 17th – June 19th, the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts will host screenings of the documentary film, “The Right to Read,” executive-produced by LeVar Burton (Reading Rainbow, Roots) and directed by Jenny Mackenzie (Quiet Heroes). Screenings will begin at 9:30 AM each day.
On Juneteenth – Wednesday, June 19th – there will be a special event from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM featuring a free continental breakfast, with the screening of the film, followed by a panel discussion with community leaders and reading advocates. Panelists include Ryan A. Breisch, Kim Clarke, Kevin Collins, Cheryl Davis, Tamara Smith, Stephanie Towles, and Andrea White, with NAACP and Reading Film Office Board Member, Wynton Butler, serving as moderator. This special event will also feature a book fair showcasing local black authors, including Tonay Henry, Jamillha Kenya, Ashley Giddens, and Sharice Towels, as well as a book giveaway.
Additionally, The Right to Read will be screened at the Reading Public Museum on June 20th and June 21st at 4:00 PM each day.
Executive Director of the Reading Film Office, Cammie Harris, emphasizes the significance of this event: “This week-long celebration is not only a tribute to the historical importance of Juneteenth but also an opportunity to reinforce the foundational role that literacy plays in the lives of our youth.”
Wynton Butler adds, “The event looks to shine a light on the importance of reading literacy for our community’s youth. We believe that by fostering a love for reading, we can unlock endless possibilities and create a brighter future for all children in our community.”
Registration is required to attend as seating is limited. Link to register: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/tqvavtm
