Bloomington Freedom to Read, a student-led organization that successfully opposed book removal efforts in local schools, received the 2024 Omar Bonderud Human Rights Award from the city.

The group formed when students from Kennedy and Jefferson High Schools learned that community members were petitioning to remove books from school libraries. The organization consisted of six to seven core members and approximately 25 additional students who organized to challenge the removal petition.

The students presented speeches during school board listening sessions, arguing that removing books would strip representation from LGBTQ+ and other marginalized student groups. According to the presentation, the students felt the book removal efforts particularly targeted materials representing queer and transgender identities.

The advocacy efforts proved successful, with the school board making it more difficult to remove books from libraries. The students also met with state officials, including Governor Tim Walz, who subsequently passed legislation making book banning more difficult statewide.

Student organizers expressed appreciation for the recognition while emphasizing that advocacy for intellectual freedom must continue. The group thanked school board members, adult mentors, and community members who supported their efforts, including parents who hosted meetings outside of school.