Zine Scene: Engaging Students in Power and Resistance Narratives Through Zines

Abstract

Zines, from Punk and the Riot Grrrls to contemporary zines created by people of color and the LGBTQ+ community, are inherently intertwined with social action and countercultures seeking to subvert and resist authority. This session will begin by examining the history of zines and how the spirit driving their creation makes them an excellent tool for teaching and engaging students with social justice issues. Then, it will detail how the Arts and Humanities Librarian at an academic university has collaborated with faculty and other campus departments to facilitate dialogues about social justice, activism, power, and resistance on campus through zine

workshops, held both in and outside the classroom. During these workshops, students interact with zines from the Art and Architecture Library’s newly established zine archive as well as create their own zines dedicated to social justice issues. Finally, this presentation will provide practical advice and best practices for those interested in starting social justice zine workshops at their own institutions.