Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and Howard University professor Nikole Hannah-Jones stepped in to host an “African American Read-In” in her hometown of Waterloo, Iowa.
This is after the local school district canceled its annual event, citing concerns over President Donald Trump’s stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in education.
The read-in, held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Waterloo West High School, featured prominent Black authors, including Jacqueline Woodson, Derek Barnes, and Tammy Charles.
Hannah-Jones also distributed hundreds of free books, including her own work, The 1619 Project, which explores the impact of slavery on modern America.
Waterloo, home to Iowa’s largest percentage of Black students, had previously participated in statewide African American Read-Ins, which celebrate Black literature and authors.
However, in response to federal threats of funding cuts for schools that include DEI-focused materials, the district opted to cancel this year’s event.
Hannah-Jones, who founded the 1619 Freedom School to address gaps in Black history education, criticized the decision, stating:
“We decided we would not deprive our children—of all races—of the ability to read inspiring and affirming books about the Black experience.”
The event drew strong community support, reinforcing the importance of representation in education amid growing national debates over race-based curriculum restrictions.
