I’m so thankful for our libraries and bookstores who will be helping me expand on the important conversations surrounding race and racism at home with my kids.
Here are links to the recommended resources (books, audiobooks, ebooks, and websites our libraries have put together:
Talking to Kids about Race & Racism – Burlington Public Library
Black Lives Matter – a list of notable figures and moments in the civil rights movement, along with related books – Burlington Public Library
Books to support conversations and education about race, racism and resistance for kids – Hamilton Public Library
Books to support conversations and education about race, racism and resistance for teens – Hamilton Public Library
These books and videos, available digitally, can help support the conversation with children about racism – Oakville Public Library
Staff-created list of resources to support anti-racism – Oakville Public Library
“The opposite of racist isn’t ‘not racist.’ It is ‘anti-racist.’ What’s the difference? One endorses either the idea of a racial hierarchy as a racist, or racial equality as an anti-racist. One either believes problems are rooted in groups of people as a racist, or locates the roots of problems in power and policies, as an anti-racist. One either allows racial inequities to persevere, as a racist, or confronts racial inequities, as an anti-racist.” – Ibram X. Kendi
We’ve found some fabulous independent book stores that can also help diversify your bookshelves. Here are their book lists:
A Different Book List Cultural Centre in Toronto specializes in books from the African and Caribbean diaspora, this Bathurst bookshop is offering free shipping across the country.
Dilly Dally Kids in Vancouver has a wide selection and is taking orders. They’re also donating 100% of the proceeds from any book in their Black Lives Matter collection to BLM Vancouver and the Black Business and Professional Association to help the advancement of Black people in Canada.
Additional resources for talking to kids about race
This article from CBC highlighting a map of black-owned bookstores across North America.
CBC’s list of 25 Books About Being Black in Canada (adults)
I’ve learned a lot by following these folks online
Waste-Free Marie on Instagram
Curious Parenting on Instagram
Literally Cultured on Instagram and on their website
View this post on Instagram
You might also like…
Ask your kids these 75 questions to get them talking!
Use these “Would You Rather” questions to start a great conversation with your kids at dinner