Author Talk: Eddie Ahn with ("Advocate") at MATTER

We encourage everyone to prepurchase their books before the event as we cannot guarantee book availability without prepurchase. If you prefer to RSVP without purchasing the book, use the promo code "NOBOOK" when checking out. Please reach out to events@morematter.com with any questions.

Welcome to Eddie Ahn's (Advocate) event at the Shop at MATTER in Denver! Join us for a visually engaging talk and an audience Q&A with the artist and author of the national bestseller Advocate as he continues to talk in sold-out events in San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, Sacramento, and New York. For this event, you can also have your book signed and stamped with special art!

This event will be held in person with snacks provided. Eventbrite ticketholders will be entered for a raffle for original art (must be in person to win) - each individual ticketholder will also receive a free small print or art item (1 item per email address, supplies are limited!).

ABOUT THE BOOK

Born in Texas to Korean immigrants, Eddie grew up working at his family’s store with the weighty expectations that their sacrifices would be paid off when he achieved the “American Dream.” Years later after moving to San Francisco and earning a coveted law degree, he then does the unthinkable: he rejects a lucrative legal career to enter the nonprofit world.

In carving his own path, Eddie defies his family’s notions of economic success, igniting a struggle between family expectations, professional goals, and dreams of community. As an environmental justice attorney, he confronts the most immediate issues the country is facing today, from the devastating effects of Californian wildfires to economic inequality, all while combatting burnout and racial prejudice. In coming fully into his own, Eddie also reaches a hand back to his parents, showing them the value of a life of service rather than one spent only seeking monetary wealth.

Weaving together humorous anecdotes with moments of victory and hope, this powerful, deeply contemplative full-color graphic novel explores the relationship between immigration and activism, opportunity and obligation, and familial duty and community service.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eddie Ahn is the cartoonist of the graphic memoir Advocate, published by Penguin Random House in 2024. A nonprofit lawyer for 15+ years, he serves as the executive director of Brightline Defense, an environmental justice nonprofit based in San Francisco. He has also served in AmeriCorps, teaching art and public speaking workshops for elementary students.

A self-taught artist, Eddie’s art has been installed on utility boxes across San Francisco, and he has been hosted as a Cartoonist-in-Residence by the Charles Schulz Museum. His ongoing work can be found on instagram @ehacomics.

AGENDA

5:30PM Doors Open: Snacks and showing of original art behind the book

6:00PM Welcome and Introduction

6:10PM Book Reading

6:35PM Discussion

7:00PM Book Signing + Connecting

7:30PM Social & Shopping

8:00PM End

Please note, this event promptly begins at 6:00pm—early arrival is encouraged.

ACCESIBILITY

Parking: Metered street parking is available (parallel parking) on Market St. Paid lots are available within a few blocks. The closest one is on 21st and Market St.

Entrance Access: Our front door is at street level and manually operated, accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids. The rest of the block has sidewalks raised by five steps; however, the bike lane offers a step-free route down the block with minimal car traffic.

Restrooms: All-gender restrooms. Just like at home.

Communication: All staff on site speak English. There will be one Spanish speaking staff member. We welcome communication via translation apps (Google Translate is available). While we do not use ASL, we’re happy to communicate through apps or other tools that work for you.

Alcohol Policy: No alcohol will be served or permitted at this event.

Masks: Masks are encouraged and supplied.

Questions or Requests: Please contact us at events@morematter.com with any accessibility needs or questions.