Standing Together for Access and Expression with the CWBA

Last week, members of Dormer Harpring attended the Colorado Women’s Bar Association’s “Powering CWBA’s Policy Action Work” benefit event. The evening centered on the growing issue of book bans and the fight to protect free expression.

Across the country, book bans are increasing at an unprecedented rate, with more than 10,000 titles banned in public schools last year. Many of these books focus on themes of race, gender, and identity, silencing stories from marginalized communities. The CWBA event featured a panel of librarians and educators who were terminated for standing against censorship and defending the public’s right to read.

Panelists Suzette Baker, Summer Boismier, Terri Lesley, Brooky Parks, and Rhea Young shared powerful stories of courage, loss, and perseverance. Their experiences highlighted the growing legal and political challenges facing those who fight to preserve intellectual freedom, as well as the broader implications for democracy and civil rights.

The evening also featured a silent auction, great food, and opportunities for connection among legal professionals and advocates. Funds raised will directly support the CWBA’s lobbying and public policy work at the Colorado legislature and beyond, helping to protect access to information and ensure that all voices can be heard.

Dormer Harpring is proud to support the CWBA and its mission to promote equity, justice, and freedom of expression for all.