it makes sense superman Given that he himself came to Earth as a refugee, he would likely have a tolerant view of immigrants and other minorities. krypton star.
of man of steel Although he may not seem like a spokesperson for progressive ideals, in 1950 the cover of the book above finds him talking to a small crowd of mostly white boys.
“…And remember, boys and girls, your school, like our country, is made up of Americans of many different races, religions, and nationalities. So…if you hear someone attacking a fellow student or anyone else because of their religion, race, or national origin, don’t wait. Tell them that’s un-American. Help keep your school all-American.”
In other words, citizens have to step up and take action because superheroes aren’t always going to come along and make things right.
The cheap paper jacket above is distributed to schoolchildren By the American Democratic Institute, an offshoot of the New York-based Anti-Defamation League.
Meanwhile, a full-color version of the 66-year-old’s illustration has been circulating on social media. Think of this as a placeholder. Eventually, someone will clean it up and add more girls, children with disabilities, and children of color.
Note: An earlier version of this post appeared on the site in 2017.
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Ayun Halliday I’m a writer, illustrator, and theater maker living in New York.
Source: Open Culture – www.openculture.com
