Jayapal Urges Readers to Defy Censorship of Classic and Contemporary Works

The congresswoman called on Americans not to limit their civic engagement to voting or community volunteering. She emphasized a continuous practice of reading, sharing experiences, and supporting authors whose voices are under pressure. "Literature questions powerful institutions and expands the boundaries of our conversation and thought," Jayapal said. She added that literature should never be allowed to police imagination, as it enables people to share personal journeys and collective dreams.