In a bold move into original content, Kanopy, the free streaming platform offered through public and academic libraries, will premiere its first feature-length documentary, Banned Together, on April 25. The documentary tackles one of the most urgent and controversial issues facing U.S. education today: book banning and curriculum censorship.
Like all content on Kanopy, Banned Together will stream ad-free and without fees to anyone with a library card from a participating institution.
Students Become Activists
The film centers on the real-life story of three high school students in Beaufort, South Carolina, who spring into action when 97 books are suddenly pulled from their school libraries. Their fight sparks national attention, drawing support from bestselling authors like Jodi Picoult, Neil Gaiman, Ellen Hopkins, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, and others whose works have appeared on banned lists.
What begins as a local controversy soon expands into a sweeping examination of censorship in schools, with scenes of public protests, intense school board showdowns, and deeply personal testimony from teachers, librarians, and students on the frontlines.
A Broad Coalition, A Divisive Issue
Produced in partnership with Atomic Focus Entertainment, Banned Together features voices from across the spectrum, including the ACLU, PEN America, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the American Library Association, and even Moms for Liberty.
“This film is about marginalized voices being silenced,” said producer Jenn Wiggin, “and students stepping up to protect their rights—even in the face of real threats and powerful opposition.”
For Kanopy, the documentary is more than a debut. It’s a mission statement.
“As a provider of educational and cultural content, we felt compelled to get behind this story,” said Kanopy General Manager Jason Tyrrell in the press release. “The titles we offer are curated but never censored, and this film represents our commitment to the right to access diverse viewpoints.”
Where and How to Watch
Banned Together begins streaming April 25 on Kanopy and is free to access with a library card. Viewers can sign up through their public or university libraries and explore a catalog of educational and independent films – all without ads or subscriptions. Find more info on the documentary at https://www.bannedtogetherdoc.com.