May 13th, 2025

On May 6, 2025, nearly 200 guests gathered at the Edison Ballroom for Behind the Book’s Liberate Literacy! Annual Benefit—and together, we made history.

We were moved by riveting speeches from our honorees: Dr. Yusef Salaam, Ibi Zoboi, and the National Coalition Against Censorship, all underscoring how critical the freedom to read is for young people. Their words reminded us that literacy is not just about books—it’s about power, truth, identity, and freedom of thought.

Our emcee, Tom Guthrie, brought the house down with the world premiere of Let Them Read, an original, cheeky, and poignant musical number written for BtB. With backup vocals from a spirited ensemble of musicians and singers, the performance set the tone for a joyful evening of community and courage.

We were honored by the presence of Laura Antunez Rodrigues, Assistant Principal of PS 235 – The Academy for New Americans. She shared how her partnership with BtB has helped build a culture of reading: "Last year alone, our 60 newly arrived immigrant students logged 600 hours of reading time."

Two of our own Behind the Book student authors took the stage:
Nikko, a 4th grader from 162Q, shared that he learned the importance of empathy and
Brooke, a 9th grader from Thurgood Marshall Academy, moved the crowd with original works created in BtB programs. Brooke’s poem “Blue” left us breathless:

“Why are children like me accused and have the right to remain silent? Can my voice be heard behind my lips?”

The energy in the room was electric. Longtime supporters called it “the best Behind the Book benefit ever.” Thanks to your generosity, we surpassed our fundraising goal—fueling our work to make reading a right, not a privilege

Thank You

To our honorees: Dr. Yusef Salaam, Ibi Zoboi, and NCAC’s Christine Emeran and team—thank you for your leadership, your artistry, and your refusal to accept injustice.

And to our sponsors—your partnership powers our mission:

Atlantic Group, Robin Canter & Sally Susman, Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, Doug & Sandy Davidson, Kirkland & Ellis, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Blair Thetford, Wilkens Family Fund, and Ian Woolley.