Charis Books & More, the oldest independent feminist bookstore in the South, is the target of criticism by women who say the Atlanta institution has rebuffed their concerns about its pro-Palestine position and programming.
The women, most but not all Jewish, also are dissatisfied with the response from Agnes Scott College to appeals that Charis — the college’s bookstore partner — demonstrate a more even-handed position toward Israel.
Charis Books & More opened in November 1974 on Moreland Avenue, in Atlanta’s Little Five Points district, and moved in 2019 to a house in Decatur owned by Agnes Scott College. The name Charis (pronounced KA-riss), comes from a Greek word for “grace, kindness, and life” and also translates as “gift.”
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According to the store’s website, Charis Books and Charis Circle, its nonprofit programming arm, “provide the only local, dedicated, feminist gathering space, open 7 days a week, and program more than 270 events a year dedicated to encouraging the expression of diverse and marginalized voices, working for social justice, and fostering sustainable feminist communities.”
Charis has been open about its pro-Palestine stance. A Nov. 9 Instagram post read: “As booksellers and as people, Charis stands with Palestine and joins the demand for an immediate ceasefire, cutting all military support to Israel, and lifting the siege on Gaza.” The comment section ran the gamut from impassioned support to outrage and denunciation.
Programming, particularly a Dec. 9 event, is at the root of the controversy.
A participant’s online promotion read: “A group of parents and educators will offer stories and maps to guide a conversation for kids about Palestine, colonization, and liberation and how kids and families can take action in their own communities. Geared toward ages 6-12 but all ages are welcome.” A graphic advertising “Let’s Talk…
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