Anti Racism Resources, Voices to Amplify, and Shops to support
Anti Racism Resources, Voices to Amplify, and Shops to support
First off, let me apologize for the tardiness of this blog post. This is something I should have written years ago. I know that I’ve failed in many ways to support the Black community on my platform. I’ve been doing anti-racist work in my home, heart, and community for years, yet I haven’t made that clear or known on my platform. And for that, I apologize.
I’ve been working on this post for some time, but life with a preemie newborn and a toddler has made it harder to get work done. But, I’m a firm believer that showing up imperfectly is so much better than not showing up at all. So here I am, showing up in the best way I can right now.
I firmly believe in this work. I believe it matters. I believe it’s necessary. I believe it’s Kingdom work. I believe it’s life-long work. It’s not too late to join. Show up afraid or show up brave, we just need you to show up.
Let me remind you: this isn’t about politics. This is strictly about saying that Black Lives Matter. In fact, that’s the minimum. Black lives are valued, important, precious, worthy. Saying Black Lives Matter is not a threat to anyone else. This is simply about realizing and recognizing that Black Lives haven’t mattered in the past. It’s recognizing the dark history of our country and choosing to make changes to rectify the pain, grief, and damage that has been caused. That can feel like a colossal task to take on, but it won’t happen unless we choose to show up and make changes in our homes. Most importantly, in our parenting. We are raising the next generation. We can make huge changes by the way we choose to parent.
I wanted to put together a list of resources that have been helpful for me or that are on my list to check out. I have listed a bunch of Black owned small shops that I encourage you to follow and purchase from. That is a very tangible and easy way to make a difference!
This list is by no means exhaustive and there’s plenty more that could be added, so I encourage you to continue to do your own research for ways to educate yourself and take action.
Parenting Courses/Anti-Racist Coures
“Parenting and White Supremacy” by Layla F. Saad
“A White Families’ Guide To Talking About Racism” by Education With An Apron
“How to Talk To Kids About Race” by Monique Melton
Shops to Support
Coaster This: drinkware and accessories
Blue Indigo Co: baby head wraps
Evermore Designs: clay earrings
Fifteen and Fifteen: leather hand bags
Pretty Please Teethers: teethers
The Handmade and Co: Macramé & Terrariums, temporarily closed but she will reopen soon!
Moneé Elizabeth Jewelry: jewelry
Rayo and Honey: home goods with positive intent
The Baked Clay Studio: jewelry, currently sold out but watch for her restocks!
LaPierre Cosmetics: nail polish
Fanmmon: dresses and apparel
Amy Lauren Studio: artwork
A Spoonful of Faith: illustrations, currently closed but will reopen soon!
Because of Zoe: hair bows
T Thomas Arts: pottery
The Tiny Tassel: jewelry & accessories
Books to Read (aka what’s on my list)
I’ve chosen to not add links, because I encourage you to find Black owned book stores or indie book stores to support these writers. Take a look at this post to find a book store.
“I am Still Here” by Austin Channing
“White Fragility” by Robin Diangelo
“Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
“So You Wanna Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo
“How to be Anti-Racist” Dr. Ibram X Kendi
“Me and White Supremacy” by Layla F. Saad
“Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson
“Beyond Color Blind” by Sarah Shin
“Be the Bridge” by Latasha Morrison
Podcasts:
“Raising Anti-Racist Children--a Holistic Approach” with Kristen Coggins
“1619”--NYT Podcast by Nikole Hannah-Jones
Brené with Austin Channing Brown on I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness
Kids Books
I’ve chosen to not add links, because I encourage you to find Black owned book stores or indie book stores to support these writers. Take a look at this post to find a book store.
“The Anti-Racist Baby” by Dr. Ibram X Kendi
“We’re Different, We’re the Same” by Bobbi Kates
“All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold
“Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History” by Vashti Harrison
“I am Enough” by Grace Byers
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
And so many more! This website has TONS: https://blackbabybooks.com/
Instagram Accounts to follow and amplify
Places to Donate (this is not an exhaustive list!)
I also found this article which lists 137 organizations you can donate to and categorizes them by type of organization!
I was also sent this Google Doc of resources that is full of even more things to read and listen to in order to further your education. I also encourage you to take action from here. Talk to family members, call out racist comments, donate to organizations, use your vote, shop from Black owned businesses, etc. What else? Comment on this post with more businesses to support, books to read, podcasts to listen to, etc.