I am compiling this list of important antiracism resources for families on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Since COVID-19 is still raging here in California, all of our local marches and gatherings have been cancelled. I suppose I’m feeling compelled to recognize the importance of this day while also adhering to necessary health guidelines and keeping my family safe.
In my own small way, I want to to something.
I continue to be horrified by the systemic racism and deeply ingrained white supremacy that still thrives in the United States. I am also hopeful and inspired by the social justice movements and grassroots political organizing that is taking place.
I know that where hope meets action, incredible positive changes can thrive!
Our children have incredible passion and energy for justice and equality. How can we nurture these qualities and learn alongside them? How can we serve our communities and advocate for ALL human beings?
These are questions I ask myself frequently! My questions have led me to research and track down resources which I’m eager to share with you. So if you’re searching for antiracism resources for you and your children, this is the perfect place to start!
Important antiracism resources for families
I realize that diving into a topic like Antiracism can feel really overwhelming. Please don’t feel like you need to do all of the following! Simply choose one or two of the posts, skim through them when you have a few minutes, and select one resource to start with. For your convenience, I’ve divded resources into categories with direct links to everything listed.
- How to Teach Your Kids About Racism – Includes 10 simple action steps as well as specific recommendations for 10 books, 10 documentaries, and 10 museums / online resources with links to all!
- Empowering Antiracism Books for Young Readers – 25 recommendations for young readers, from toddlers through upper elementary school.
- 10 Powerful Antiracism Books for Middle Schoolers – 10 books ideal for the middle school years. You may also find that teens and adults get a lot from these books too!
- 10 Important Antiracism Books for Teens – 10 fantastic books for teens and adults. You may find that some of these titles are good for the middle schoolers in your life as well, depending on their maturity level.
Additional resources for antiracism education and growth:
- A Special Holiday Celebrating Interracial Marriage – A brief history of Loving Day and the landmark Loving v. Virginia case that legalized interracial marriage in the U.S.
- My Visit to Heart Mountain Japanese Internment Camp – A reflection on my visit to the war relocation center where some of my husband’s family members were interned. Includes history and related resources.
- 10 Important Books About Japanese Internment for Kids – With recommendations for the youngest readers up through high school, these 10 books offer engaging stories and opportunities to learn and connect.
- How to Raise Compassionate Kids – 10 specific (and simple to implement!) action steps.
- How to Raise Respectful Kids – 10 practical, actionable steps included.
- 25 Empowering Books for Girls – 25 books to empower, encourage, and inspire girls! Includes recommendations for toddlers all the way up to young women.
I hope that these important antiracsim resources for families provide meaning and understanding as you continue to learn and grow alongside your children. As always, let me know if you have any other recommendations!
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