The European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF) strongly condemns the intimidation, threats and acts of vandalism directed at the Australian independent bookshop Amplify Bookstore, which specialises in literature by BIPoC* authors.
In recent days, following an aggressive 'anti-woke' post on X, targeting the shop and its staff directly, members of the Amplify staff have been subjected to threats of arson and violence, while the bookshop has suffered damage to its shopfront as a result of vandalism.
EIBF President Fabian Paagman affirms:
“Booksellers are curators of culture and knowledge and play an important role in bringing diverse voices and perspectives to their communities. They must be free to choose the books they stock and recommend, without having to fear intimidation, threats or violence because of the ideas, authors or perspectives they make available to readers.
We stand firmly with the team at Amplify Bookstore and condemn these attempts to intimidate booksellers through hatred and violence. There is no place for such behaviour in a free and democratic society."
*BIPoC: Black, Indigenous, People of Colour
Photo credits: Amplify Bookshop
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| EIBF_Statement - EIBF Stands with Amplify Bookstore Against Threats and Intimidation.pdf | 475.97 KB |