Hello!
On the weekend of September 22, I attended my first Letters and Lines (our local SCBWI chapter's) Conference as a faculty member, and... well, I survived. How people do this for a living is beyond my understanding, but I have to admit it was sort of fun. At least, way more fun than the preceding weeks, when I had to come up with the presentations.
I was quite stressed about my first presentation, "Hispanic or Latino? Get your Facts Straight and Avoid Stereotypes," because stereotypes are not easy to talk about. And, most of all, because I wanted to establish a clear reason for avoiding stereotypes. Of course, we want to make sure we're portraying our characters and the group they represent as faithfully as possible, but what are the consequences of not doing so?
As authors and illustrators, we are in a unique position to influence young minds. Way before these minds start watching movies or reading newspapers or challenging information, they are exposed to the books we create. Our stories have power. They help defy stereotypes commonly shared by society and learned during our youth. They help children grow with open minds. They help challenge prejudice. And, hopefully, they help prevent discrimination.
I am not sure I accomplished my goal, but I hope I planted a seed.
Ana
