Local NAACP to hold screening of ‘The Right to Read’

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – The NAACP Youngstown/Mahoning County is holding a screening this weekend of a documentary highlighting an issue called “the greatest civil rights issue of our time,” according to the film’s creative team.

“The Right to Read” will be shown Saturday, Aug. 17 at 11 a.m. at The Youngstown Event Center, 12 E. Dewey Ave., Youngstown.

The screening is a partnership between the NAACP, the Youngstown City School District and the Ohio Department of Workforce and Education.

A panel discussion will follow the screening.

The film shares the stories of an NAACP activist, a teacher, and two American families who fight to provide the youngest generation with the most foundational indicator of life-long success: the ability to read.

The director, Jenny Mackenzie, wrote, “Reading is at the core of democracy. Our future depends on ensuring all students are equipped with the skills to build an equitable society for us all.”

The local event will include a giveaway of two $100 grocery gift cards and two school supply basket raffles. The Youngstown Mobile Library will also be there.

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