The National Associations of Librarians of Color (NALCo) presented several dynamic programs during #alavirtual20. NALCo members also co-presented and served as panelists for other programs throughout the duration of the Virtual Event. Programs included but were not limited to:
- AILA President’s Program: Honouring and Respecting Relationship: Rethinking Library Praxis
- Behind the Wires: American Concentration Camps Then and Now (APALA LIVE)
- E. J. Josey’s 1964 Charge: ‘Keep on Pushing’ (BCALA LIVE)
- Treasure Hunters at Libraries? Why Not!! (CALA LIVE)
- Juntos: Latinx Family Engagement at Your Library
ALA President, Julius C. Jefferson, Jr , recently released a statement: ALA takes responsibility for past racism, pledges a more equitable association. As libraries work to become more intentional about improving internal and external relationships, reexamine outreach efforts, and reevaluate services provided to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, they can look to the work of NALCo for examples of best practices, positive outcomes, and leadership. BIPOC-identifying library staff and LIS students as well as those providing library services within BIPOC communities may also find opportunities to collaborate and participate.
To learn more about National Associations of Librarians of Color and to get involved, visit their respective websites (listed alphabetically and linked here):
- American Indian Library Association (AILA)
- Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)
- The Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA)
- Chinese American Library Association (CALA)
- REFORMA The National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish-Speaking
- The Joint Council of Librarians of Color