Jessica Young is fighting back against book bans. She’ll share why protecting young readers’ access to diverse stories isn’t a political issue, it’s a fundamental act of love and learning. Jessica Young is a children’s book author and advocate for libraries, bookstores, and all things literacy. With roots in journalism and public service, she brings a storyteller’s heart and a communicator’s clarity to her work—whether writing for young readers or connecting communities to meaningful causes. She began her career as a journalist and editor at outlets including the Houston Chronicle, Texas Monthly, and the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, and was part of a Chronicle team named a Pulitzer Prize finalist. She transitioned into public affairs, leading communications in local government and the nonprofit sector to champion education and equity. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Liberal Arts – Journalism from Harvard University. She lives in Houston with her husband, Matt, and daughter, Harper Lee. When not writing or reading, she’s usually drinking coffee or dreaming up new ways to share stories that spark a love of learning. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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