When children are centered in the pages of a book, equity is amplified. When children expand their experiences through the pages of a book, access is amplified.
Children’s books that reflect the richness of the human experience through diversity, inclusion, and access are catalysts for change.
Anti-Racism Resources
At the Highlights Foundation, we hold diversity as one of our core values. We are committed to diversity in craft, storytelling, shared stories and experiences. We strive for diverse representation in our faculty, staff, students, and partnerships. By fostering forward-moving dialogues, we encourage personal and institutional growth through education, awareness, and action.
Essential Conversations
To amplify the need and call for more diverse, inclusive, and accessible books, the Highlights Foundation developed Essential Conversations. Learn more about the program and how you can participate or support.
PJ Library: Picture Book Summer Camp
Starts: March 31, 2024
Writing About Mental Health for MG and YA Readers: A Two-Night Mini
Starts: April 2, 2024
Writing Through Trauma to Empower Readers: A Working In-Community Retreat for Storytellers
Starts: April 11, 2024
Asian and Asian American Voices: An In-Community Retreat
Starts: May 2, 2024
Jewish Symposium: An In-Community Gathering for Jewish Writers and Illustrators
Starts: May 5, 2024
Disability Representation in Picture Book Illustration: A Two-Night Mini
Starts: May 7, 2024
Writing with Pride: A Two-Night Mini for Picture Book Writers
Starts: May 14, 2024
Black Voices: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers
Starts: July 7, 2024
Neurodiverse Writers and Illustrators: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers
Starts: August 8, 2024
Native Creatives: An In-Community Retreat
Starts: August 21, 2024
Latinx Voices: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers
Starts: October 27, 2024
Rainbow Retreat: An In-Community Retreat for Storytellers
Starts: October 31, 2024
In-Community Fellowships and Programs
Through partnerships, grants, and our Essential Conversations Series, the Highlights Foundation offers several in-community program options for children’s authors and illustrators.