Kimberlé Crenshaw: Backtalker at Central Library

Kimberlé Crenshaw gave the language of intersectionality to the world, and now she is telling her own story. On Monday, October 19, ALOUD and the ACLU of Southern California bring the legal scholar and writer to downtown Los Angeles for a conversation about Backtalker, her memoir. It is free with a reservation, and it earns a spot on any list of things to do in Los Angeles that involve thinking out loud with other people.

Who is speaking

Crenshaw is a law professor and writer whose work on race, gender and the law shaped how people discuss discrimination far beyond the courtroom. The organizers describe the evening as an urgent and inspiring conversation, which suggests something closer to a dialogue than a lecture. The event page pictures a second speaker beside her but doesn't name them, so check the Eventbrite listing for the final lineup.

What to expect

ALOUD is the public program series of the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, and its calendar leans toward author talks and conversations. Expect a seated, spoken-word evening in the Mark Taper Auditorium, with the memoir as the starting point. The ACLU of Southern California is co-presenting, so the talk will likely touch on civil rights as well as Crenshaw's personal history. If you have read the book, you will recognize the thread. If you haven't, the conversation works as an introduction.

Reservations and overbooking

Free library programs are overbooked on purpose. The organizers say a reservation may not guarantee admission if the room is full, and they recommend arriving early. Unclaimed reservations are typically released to people waiting in line. Treat your RSVP as a priority spot, not a promised seat.

When: Monday, October 19, 2026, starts at 7 PM Where: Mark Taper Auditorium - Central Library, 630 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90071 Price: Free with registration on Eventbrite Presented by: ALOUD and ACLU of Southern California

Getting there

The Central Library sits on 5th Street in the heart of downtown. The 7th Street/Metro Center station is a short walk south, and Pershing Square station is a few blocks east, so transit is the easy choice for a weeknight. Parking is available nearby, but allow extra time since a full house is possible.

If you are filling out your calendar with upcoming events Los Angeles has to offer this month, this one is a strong pick for readers, students and anyone following civil rights conversations. Find more downtown LA events or browse all arts and culture listings.