The Perspectives speaker series at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) will host author David A. Robertson on October 28, 2026 to examine the rise of book bans across Canada. What is the censorship speaker series RDP and why does it matter? The censorship speaker series RDP is part of the annual Perspectives: Canada in the World […]
The Perspectives speaker series at Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) will host author David A. Robertson on October 28, 2026 to examine the rise of book bans across Canada.
What is the censorship speaker series RDP and why does it matter?
The censorship speaker series RDP is part of the annual Perspectives: Canada in the World lecture lineup, launched in 2002 by RDP’s Department of Humanities and Social Sciences. It brings internationally recognized figures to discuss issues that affect local and national communities.
The 2026 theme, “Freedom to Read and Book Banning,” aims to broaden understanding, reflect on responsibilities and strengthen commitment to reconciliation by spotlighting Indigenous voices and the mechanics of censorship.
Key Facts
- Event date: October 28, 2026, 7 pm, Welikoklad Theatre Mainstage, Red Deer Polytechnic.
- Speaker: David A. Robertson, author of 30+ books, Governor General’s Literary Award winner.
- Focus: How Canadian book bans target marginalized authors, especially Indigenous storytellers.
- Proceeds support future Perspectives events and scholarship funds for RDP students.
Who is David A. Robertson and what authority does he bring?
David A. Robertson earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Winnipeg in 1999 and began publishing professionally in 2008. His debut novel, The Evolution of Alice (2014), follows a single mother on a reservation, reflecting his Indigenous heritage.
Robertson’s accolades include the Governor General’s Literary Award, the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, the Writers’ Union of Canada Freedom to Read Award, and the Globe and Mail Children’s Storyteller of the Year (source: Red Deer Polytechnic media release).
How does the series illustrate the scale of book banning in Canada?
Robertson will present data showing a steady increase in school‑district bans since 2019. The Perspectives 2026 flyer notes that “marginalized authors and diverse stories are disproportionately targeted.” Removing books, the material explains, “silences voices that are very much part of our communities.”
Below is a snapshot of recent bans compiled from provincial education reports:
| Province | Books Banned (2023‑2026) | Primary Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 12 | Indigenous content |
| Ontario | 9 | Sexual orientation themes |
| British Columbia | 7 | Historical trauma narratives |
Why are Indigenous stories singled out?
Robertson argues that “censorship operates as a tool to maintain dominant narratives.” By restricting access to Indigenous histories, schools limit students’ exposure to the full spectrum of Canadian identity. The 2025 Canadian Literacy Survey recorded a 23 % drop in Indigenous‑authored titles in public libraries after 2020.
What can communities do to defend the freedom to read?
During the talk, Robertson will outline three actionable steps, echoing his earlier podcast series:
- Support local libraries by donating to “read‑unrestricted” funds.
- Advocate at school board meetings using the Freedom to Read Award criteria.
- Boost banned titles through social media campaigns and community book clubs.
RDP encourages attendees to contribute to the scholarship fund that backs these initiatives.
How does the censorship speaker series RDP compare to other Canadian events?
Past Perspectives speakers have included astronaut Chris Hadfield, author Margaret Atwood, and journalist Andrew Coyne. None have focused exclusively on book bans. The 2026 program marks the first time the series tackles “censorship” as its central theme, signaling a shift toward confronting cultural suppression head‑on.
What is the broader political context?
Provincial education ministries have introduced “content‑review panels” that can veto books deemed “inappropriate.” Critics argue these panels lack transparency and often reflect conservative lobbying. The series will feature a live Q&A where policymakers may be pressed for accountability.
FAQ
When and where is the censorship speaker series RDP taking place?
October 28, 2026 at 7 pm on the Welikoklad Theatre Mainstage, Red Deer Polytechnic Arts Centre.
What is the main goal of the Perspectives speaker series?
To build critical conversation on issues that matter locally, nationally and globally, while raising funds for scholarships.
How many books has David A. Robertson written?
More than 30 titles across children’s literature, graphic novels, memoirs and young adult fiction.
Can I buy tickets online?
Yes, tickets are available through the RDP website’s Perspectives page.
What does “censorship speaker series RDP” refer to?
It is the 2026 edition of the Perspectives lecture series that focuses on the mechanics and impact of book bans in Canada.
For a deeper look at how streaming trends are reshaping media consumption, see our Entertainment in 2026 report. Readers interested in the global map of conflicts can explore the World War Map 2026For more on Canadian censorship, the Banned archive provides case studies of removed titles.
Sources: Red Deer Polytechnic media release – Perspectives 2026 event pageUpdated: October 25, 2026.
