Ever since I started Mombian, I’ve been writing about the need for more LGBTQ-inclusive children’s books, including ones that don’t focus on the “issue” of being LGBTQ or part of an LGBTQ family. That’s why I’m very excited about a new initiative to take a headcount of everyone (including you, I hope!) who would value more of these books.
Alli Harper, who wrote a thoughtful piece at M is for Movement a few months ago, “We Need Everyday Books With Families Like Ours” (to which I offered some further reflections) is asking people to sign up to be counted among those wanting everyday picture books that include LGBTQ+ characters if you haven’t already, and to ask your friends, family and other networks to do the same. It will take fewer than 30 seconds!
She also asks that you share on social media from her Facebook and Twitter links, and e-mail supporters in your networks asking them to sign up and share in turn. Below is a sample e-mail that Alli has shared for folks to adapt to suit their needs:
Hi ____,
I’m part of a team working to prove that there’s a significant national audience seeking everyday kids’ books that include LGBTQ+ kids and families. As you know, these books are hard to find, and we’re working to change that for all our kids.
Will you take less than 30 seconds to SIGN UP TO BE COUNTED among those seeking these books?
And perhaps most importantly, will you ask your networks to do the same, TO SIGN UP TO BE COUNTED?
Please share on social media from these facebook and twitter links.
Here’s sample language you can use when sharing: Join me in being counted in support of more everyday kids’ books that include LGBTQ+ kids and families too. I care about this because [Ex. I want my child, ___, to be able to find herself in the books we share; OR Ex. I’m tired of switching pronouns so that my child, ___, can see kids like her with two moms in picture books — I want kids like my child to really exist in picture books; OR I want my child to know about all different kinds of families.]
Thank you so much for joining our team – every person matters!
Alli also writes, “Stay tuned — We’ll be in touch shortly to ask for your feedback on various ideas for leveraging this market demand. Your input matters. Thank you again!”
I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with her a few times about what all of us might be able to do here, and while there’s nothing definite yet, there are lots of exciting possibilities. Thank you for being a part of the process!