A canvas bag, often emblazoned with the slogan “I read banned books,” serves as a visible declaration of support for intellectual freedom and open access to literature. These bags function as both practical carriers and symbolic statements, aligning the owner with the principles of free speech and the right to explore diverse perspectives.
Carrying such a bag can promote conversations about censorship and the importance of literary freedom. It can also signal solidarity with authors and readers whose voices have been suppressed or challenged. Historically, book banning has been a tool used to control information and limit critical thinking. These bags offer a contemporary response, reclaiming the narrative and asserting the value of unrestricted access to literary works.