Disclaimer: The events described in this article are based on factual reports. The names of real individuals have been omitted to protect their privacy.
In the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, a beacon of literary diversity once stood—a haven for young readers, a celebration of Black authors, and a testament to community resilience. Liberation Station Bookstore, the state’s first Black-owned children’s bookstore, opened its doors on Juneteenth in 2023. Its mission was clear: to empower young minds, amplify marginalized voices, and create a safe space for imagination to flourish.
But today, we mourn its imminent closure. Not due to financial struggles or lack of community support, but because of something far more insidious: threats—violent, chilling, and aimed at silencing a vital literary oasis.
The Birth of Liberation Station
Mrs. Scott-Miller, a passionate advocate for literacy and representation, envisioned Liberation Station as more than just a bookstore. It was a sanctuary—a place where children could see themselves reflected in the pages of books, where stories transcended boundaries, and where young minds could dream unapologetically.
The grand opening was a triumph. Nearly 4,000 people flooded the store, their excitement palpable. Liberation Station became a hub of creativity, hosting book signings, storytelling sessions, and workshops. Families browsed shelves adorned with titles by Black and underrepresented authors, their children’s eyes wide with wonder.
The Threats Begin
Yet, beneath the joy and camaraderie, shadows loomed. From the outset, Liberation Station faced threats—veiled warnings, anonymous messages, and a sense of unease. Victoria Scott-Miller, a mother of two boys, felt the weight of responsibility. She knew that her store wasn’t merely a business; it was a lifeline for young readers seeking mirrors and windows into their own lives.
The threats escalated. Some were dismissed, but others cut deeper. A chilling phone call described her eldest son’s attire while he was alone in the shop. Fear crept in, and the family took a two-week break to process the unthinkable: their haven was under siege.
Strategizing Survival
Scott-Miller and her family adjusted operating hours, hoping to avoid being targeted. They navigated the delicate balance between safety and service. But when threats persisted, they knew they couldn’t risk their children’s well-being. Liberation Station would relocate, leaving its downtown Raleigh space on April 13.
Scott-Miller’s reluctance to share her concerns stemmed from a desire to protect her family and her vision. She didn’t want to become the face of another movement; she wanted peace. Yet, her courage in speaking out highlights the urgency of this issue. Threats against a children’s bookstore are an attack on hope, on the very essence of community.
A New Chapter
As Liberation Station prepares to close its doors, it won’t mark the end. Scott-Miller’s resolve remains unshaken. The bookstore will donate unsold inventory to literacy nonprofits, ensuring that the seeds planted continue to grow. And collectively, they’ll redefine their next chapter—a story of resilience, defiance, and unwavering commitment to the power of literature.
So, let us remember Liberation Station not as a casualty but as a beacon that ignited imaginations, sparked conversations, and dared to exist. May its legacy inspire us to protect the spaces where dreams thrive, even in the face of adversity. You can check out their website at https://liberationstationbookstore.com.
What can we learn from Liberation Station’s journey? How can we safeguard literary sanctuaries? Share your thoughts below.