Reinstate Kate Greenaway's name on CILIP illustration award, a statement by Dr Rose Roberto and Tamsin Roswell, petition creators

This feels like a step backwards

Thanks for flagging such an important issue. It would be great to see the Greenaway name reinstated.

Please bring the name back. It’s so motivational.

Please keep Kate Greenaway, from Ruth Kamen, FCILIP

The Yoto Carnegies own website says 'It was originally named after the popular and highly influential nineteenth century artist known for her fine children’s illustrations and designs.' Why not keep it that way?

Hmmm... the press release which was forwarded to me when they finally replied after 1 month reads: "Renamed The Yoto Carnegies, the rebrand, with its striking new logo, and strapline – ‘It starts with a spark’ – reflects the awards aim to inspire or ‘spark’ a lifelong passion for reading by connecting more children with the books that will change lives. The brand audit was undertaken by Agile Ideas and the Awards Working Party Chair in extensive consultation with past judges who are members of CILIP’s Youth Libraries Group." I guess it was not that extensive if it didn't include you, as a former YLG chair.

Please keep the award as the Kate Greenaway Medal. I hope you will understand the importance of having female representation and advocate for its return.

Nicely phrased: 'mysterious and typical' and entirely true. According to CILIP's press release the 'Medal for writing has historically had a higher external profile and popularity...' And this is its justification for obscuring women's history and an important British illustrator?

Please keep Kate Greenaway's name, so the illustrators of the future may continue to be inspired and encouraged by the great illustrators of the past.

You're welcome Lindsey, this issue seems too important to just be quietly swept away, without a proper widespread discussion -RR

Her name personalises the award and recognises a very accomplished illustrator.

The Kate Greenaway Medal for illustration which goes back to 1956 does not need a name change. Carnegie already has his name on the book award for writing. By changing the name of these awards to "The Yoto Carnegies" in order to name check a company and a male business man appears to be all about prioritising sponsorship money. Another example of casual female erasure.

Thank you for bringing this to the forefront of discussion

We must continue to value the visual arts in all forms and not diminish the work of talented artist that work tirlely to add aesthetic to our literature.

The Kate Greenaway Award should retain its unique and separate identity. It is a reminder and celebration of Greenaway and her work, which unfortunately remains relatively obscure in comparison to equally successful male contemporaries like Aubrey Beardsley and Walter Crane. Replacing her name on an award established in her honour will contribute to further omitting the example and inspiration of Greenaway as a talented & highly successful female illustrator of the past.

I agree. Greenaway Medal is recognition of remarkable illustration. Add "for illustration " for clarity , which is whst I have always taught anyway, but retain Greenaway. I fondly recall the Kate Greenaway collection in Loughborough University Library Studies department. Legend.

If it isnt broken , dont try to fix it!!

The Kate Greenaway Medal is an internationally recognised and respected prize. Such things are worth preserving. Little Island Books supports its restoration.

Yes, the name change is absurd Kate Greenaway was a marvellous illustrator much admired by Ruskin the name change is both mysterious and typical.

The legacy left by Kate Greenaway has been a valuable one. Please reinstate it so it can help future generations.