Telling Our Stories: Why Representation Matters

Children deserve to see themselves as the heroes of their own stories. In this session, guests will explore the impact of diverse representation in children’s books and learn how stories shape identity, confidence, and academic success. Through presentation slides, small group discussions, and interactive activities, participants will gain strategies to center BIPOC characters in meaningful, authentic ways. Handouts will include reflection prompts and recommended reading lists.

As an advocate for diversity in children’s literature, Valerie J. Lewis Coleman recognized the crucial need for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) children to see themselves represented as protagonists in the stories they read. BIPOC is an inclusive term that encompasses the diverse experiences and backgrounds of marginalized communities. Through the When I See Me™ Children’s Book Fair, she’s creating opportunities for young readers to connect with characters who look like them and share their experiences.