New Welcoming Schools Book Series

The Human Rights Campaign has launched its first-ever Welcoming Schools Book of the Month series beginning this month through early 2026. The series will highlight a book each month aiming to inspire people in both red & blue states to bring LGBTQ inclusive these stories into libraries, schools, community centers & other youth-friendly spaces to push back against the erasure of our books. The series kicks off with New York Times bestselling author Chasten Buttigieg’s “Papa’s Coming Home” a celebration of unconditional love in a family emphasizing that stories featuring LGBTQ families are stories that celebrate belonging for everyone. Kelley Robinson, HRC President stated, “We are living at a time when censorship is being valued over love & acceptance. The Supreme Court’s recent Mahmoud decision reminds us why we must push back against efforts to silence LGBTQ+ stories. Through this series we hope to show that inspiring tales are beautiful no matter who the characters are & that themes of family & acceptance connect us all. Through these monthly readings, we hope every child & family can see themselves celebrated in the pages of these books.” Chasten Buttigieg concluded, “As a father & teacher, there’s nothing more powerful than watching a child’s eyes light up when they see themselves reflected in a story. I’m proud to partner with the Welcoming Schools program to bring Papa’s Coming Home to more students & families, especially at a time when stories like these are under attack, ensuring every child feels celebrated, every family feels embraced & the unifying theme of love shines through.”