Submitted by Lauren French
On November 11th, I was honored to read “Veterans Day: Heroes in Our Neighborhood” for the first ever Tiny Patriots’ Veterans Day story time. Rachel Racz reached out to me prior to the event and expressed her desire to show diversity in the group of veteran readers. I was proud to represent female veterans to the children in the audience and read a book that showcased the same!
Rachel is an active member of the Coronado community who is standing up for her access to public spaces, and, as acknowledged by multiple news outlet, has emphasized she is willing to follow the Library’s policies.
For this, she has been likened to a cult member and even, shockingly, the KKK. She and members of the library have been personally threatened – something that has been vocally condemned by both Rachel and other members of the community. All while she hosted an uplifting MLK Day reading from retired Air Force MSgt George Williams, who emphasized the importance of courage and perseverance during times of hardship.
Whether you share her perspectives or not, I believe that Coronado is a community that welcomes those who stand up for themselves and am proud to live in a country where we are able to take action for what we believe in.
Lauren French
