Anarchist bookfairs are a great representation of the real spirit of anarchism: mutual aid with great expression of individuality—not just “anarchy” or “chaos” as it is often mistaken to be. The Victoria Anarchist Bookfair took place at the Fernwood Community Centre on Saturday, September 23 and Sunday, September 24.
There were also additional concerts—a punk night and a hip-hop night—where local and out-of-town bands performed as part of the event.
Almost all the artists involved in the bookfair were local, including the vendors and bookshops, except for a few people who came down just for the event. One of the vendors, Camas Books and Infoshop, is a local anarchist bookshop that also sells buttons, clothing, and patches at a flexible price range.
Supporting local artists, especially Indigenous artists, makes it so that one can feel good about purchases. Knowing that one’s contribution is going back into the community makes all the difference.
The bookfair was different from the traditional Scholastic book fair many of us attended as children. The vast majority of items had a flexible price range so that one was able to pay what they could afford. Also, many items were given out for free, including stickers, posters, zines, and informational pamphlets. This made the bookfair more accessible to people of various socioeconomic statuses.
Another way mutual aid was showcased at the fair was through Food Not Bombs, which is a volunteer vegan food organization that catered for free, offering food both days for whoever was hungry.
One thing about the fair that definitely stuck out was the strong queer and Indigenous presences. There was a large acknowledgement that was visible as soon as one walked in. This made the atmosphere respectful to the lands which the bookfair was taking place upon.
Overall, this year was definitely an empowering event; the bookfair will continue to inspire people as it takes place annually. Until then, Camas is located at 2620 Quadra Street if you’re ever inclined to read some radical literature or express yourself with vibrant pins or patches. Being in a shared space with other like-minded individuals always gives motivation for new ideas and ways to express one’s own creativity.