Text reads "Read to Resist" with stylized bold lettering. "Read" is in light brown, "to" in dark brown, and "Resist" in yellow. Two colorful book icons are stacked on the right in pink and orange.
Illustration of a group of six diverse people with raised fists, standing over a young individual reading a book. The reader sits cross-legged on a stack of books, highlighting themes of empowerment and knowledge.

Read to resist

Movements for justice, democracy and human rights are facing especially challenging times. Yet this is far from the first time these movements have been on the defense.

Resistance movements have always learned winning strategies and perspectives from those who’ve come before. That’s why we’re seeking to resist and persist in the current moment through reading—and meaningful discussion with our communities. Join us!

We’ve pulled together the essentials for anyone seeking to read and resist: a thoughtful reading list, discussion questions, and some in-person and virtual events. 

Illustration by Kaviki Muema.

 We’d love for you to read with us—however you prefer:

Read on your own—or with a friend

Check out our reading list and pick something appealing.

Read with your book club

Ask your club to choose a selection from our list.

Host a book discussion

In your home, at your local bookstore or coffee shop, or anywhere else that seems right.

Set up a fundraiser for Ipas

Attendees of your book discussion can make a suggested donation.
Learn how to host an Ipas fundraiser.

Upcoming events

Loretta J. Ross has long braids, wearing a purple outfit and headscarf, sits at a desk holding a colorful circular object. She is in a room with brick walls and framed artwork behind her.

Loretta J. Ross

June 23, 6:00pm

This author talk is open to the public and book club discounts will not apply. Visit the event page to reserve a seat and purchase your book now. Signing line to follow.

Flyleaf Books, Chapel Hill, North Carolina – United States

Book cover for "Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You’d Rather Cancel" by Loretta J. Ross. The background is orange with white and purple text and a red circular arrow graphic.
Illustration of a seated cat with hearts above its head and the text "Day Dreaming" below. The cat is drawn in black, and the hearts and text are in orange.

Read to Resist Book Club at Flyleaf Books

Join in community to discuss books that inspire resilience and action. Hosted by Ipas.

Where: Flyleaf Books, Chapel Hill, North Carolina – United States

Past dates: 

April 21: The Seven Necessary Sins for Women and Girls by Mona Eltahawy

Text reading "NAIROBI BOOK LOVE" with "LOVE" represented by a red heart. Decorative lines flank the text.

Read to Resist Cafe with Nairobi Book Love

Where: Nairobi, Kenya

Book cover of Future dates:

June 7: Against the Tide by Martha Karua

Past dates:

April 26: The Havoc of Choice by Wanjiru Koinange

A group of people sitting on a patterned rug, forming a circle. They are reading books, with crisp pages visible. The individuals appear engaged, some looking at the open books, dressed casually with a variety of styles and colors in clothing.
The image features large yellow text that reads "RESIST" above "PERSIST." A red ampersand, "&," is prominently placed alongside the text. The background is white, and the text is bold and eye-catching.

Together, we’ll keep moving forward.