The Walter Stiern Library at California State University, Bakersfield, is kicking off a new speaker series, “Walter Presents,” with an exhibit and author visit focused on the history of civil rights in California.

“Wherever There’s a Fight” is an eight-panel exhibit on display through Feb. 10 featuring the fight for civil liberties in California spanning from the Gold Rush to the post-9/11 era. The exhibit is based on a book by the same name by authors Elaine Elinson and Stan Yogi, both former staffers for the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California. The book tells the stories of individuals – many of whom may not appear in California history lessons – who stood up for their rights in fights against discrimination, segregation, and other injustices.

Co-author Elinson will give a talk and sign copies of the book at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, in the Dezember Reading Room of the Walter Stiern Library. The event is free and open to the public. A limited number of reserved parking spaces will be available for free in Lot D behind the library; otherwise visitors may purchase a $5 parking pass. Elinson is an author, journalist, and media consultant with legal and social justice organizations. She served as the communications director of the ACLU of Northern California and editor of the ACLU News for more than 20 years.