In Response to HB 2, ALA/ALSC Cancels Institute Scheduled to Take Place in Charlotte, North Carolina

From the American Library Association:

The Board of Directors of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) voted today to cancel its 2016 National Institute scheduled for September in Charlotte, N.C.
The cancellation is a response to the passage last month of North Carolina’s Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act (House Bill 2), which repealed all GLBT-inclusive nondiscrimination ordinances across the state. The law contradicts the core values, purpose, and diversity work of ALSC and undermines civil rights and the fundamental principles upon which libraries are founded. While N.C. Governor Pat McCrory did release an executive order last week addressing the controversial HB2, the action does not restore cities’ right to establish local non-discrimination ordinances that apply to the private sector.
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We have heard loud and clear from our members that this new law of the land in North Carolina is not compatible with ALSC’s core values, particularly those of inclusiveness and respect,” said ALSC President Andrew Medlar. “At the same time we strongly and proudly support our members in North Carolina and the commitment they have to serving all members of their communities, and we will continue our transformative work together to create a better future for children through libraries.”

Full refunds will be provided.
Read the Complete Announcement

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