UNBANNED: Exploring Censorship in Books, Art, & Media

Final weekend! Don’t miss your chance to experience Unbanned, a free outdoor celebration of the freedom to read at FDR Four Freedoms State Park. Presented by the Four Freedoms Park Conservancy and the National Coalition Against Censorship, this timely series invites the public to stand up against censorship through conversation, community, and creative expression. As book bans rise across the country, Unbanned closes with three powerful events exploring censorship, free speech, and queer identity—alongside daily offerings like a Banned Book Library, interactive programs, and free giveaways of frequently challenged titles.
Who:
Four Freedoms Park Conservancy and the National Coalition Against Censorship
Where:
FDR Four Freedoms State Park
Roosevelt Island, New York, NY, 10044
(212) 204-8831
info@4freedomspark.org
When:
Now through June 2, 2025
Park hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Wednesday through Monday
(Closed on Tuesdays)
How:
Visiting the Park is free and open to the public—no registration is required to explore and enjoy the daily programming.
Registration is encouraged for the featured events listed below.
More info: http://www.fdrfourfreedomspark.org/unbanned
Why:
To celebrate the right to read freely, encourage public discourse, and offer community-centered programming on the topic of censorship. Featuring a Banned Book Library, interactive talks, free book giveaways of frequently challenged titles, and volunteer opportunities for community members.
Final Weekend Higlights (Registration Encouraged):
Read in Resistance with Mike Curato
Sunday, June 1 at 12:00 p.m.
Join acclaimed author Mike Curato for readings from banned books, followed by an open afternoon of reading in the Park as an act of resistance.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/read-in-resistance-with-mike-curato-tickets-1320144520799
Censorship and the First Amendment
Sunday, June 1 at 1 p.m.
NCAC Executive Director Lee Rowland explores the contours of the First Amendment and today’s threats to free expression.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/censorship-and-the-first-amendment-q-a-tickets-1320134049479

Reading of Gaysians by Mike Curato
A live reading of Gaysians, Mike Curato’s heartfelt story of four gay Asian friends navigating identity, love, and chosen family.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/censorship-and-the-first-amendment-q-a-tickets-1320134049479