Unlearn & Relearn + Books we are reading

The beauty of anti-racism is that you don’t have to pretend to be free of racism to be an anti-racist. Anti-racism is the commitment to fight racism wherever you find it, including in yourself. And it’s the only way forward. // Ijeoma Oluo

Racism has always been here.  But we’ve haven’t been forced to sit with it in this way.  And although I’ve talked to the girls a few years ago about the colour of our skin and acceptance (I think I felt compelled to after there was talk about cultural appropriation in the media), it really needs to be an ongoing conversation that will become more difficult with time.

I’ve read or watched so many articles and broadcasts on the topic so I am doing my best to unlearn what I now realize is not serving the people of society and relearn where I need to improve on.  I should say that this one started it all, and the others like this helped me realize what my privilege is.

Reading accounts of black people feeling uncomfortable driving their luxury vehicles or walking in their neighbourhoods.  Listening to biracial women who understand that having a white parent has offered them some privilege against their darker skinned colleagues or friends. And even more, realizing that white people are learning that they have no idea what black, indigenous or persons of colour (BIPOC) have to deal with.  It’s been very eye opening to say the least.

I think I have an obligation as a parent to make sure that I keep these conversations going.  We started reading these books last month.  I truly hope this keeps the lines communication open with our kids and they feel comfortable talking to us about what they see, hear or understand.  And for me, it’s making sure that I a step up and have those uncomfortable conversations when ever they need to happen.

Books, Teach kids about racism, the talk, race

The Colours of Us: A story about a child who wants to find all the right paint colours to paint pictures of her friends and family.  The child learns about the similarities and differences between us and that brown comes in different shades.
Youtube Read Along / Chapters / Amazon

Whoever You Are: A reminder to adults and children, that kids all over the world are experiencing the same joys, sadness, happiness and fears.  Regardless of where they are in the world or what they look like.
Youtube Read Along / Chapters / Amazon

Same, Same but Different: A story of two boys from the US and India who become pen-pals.  They share stories and pictures from their life.  They do all the same things (go to school, climb trees, live with their families) but a little differently.
Youtube Read Along / Chapters / Amazon

A kids book about racism:  A direct and open explanation about what racism is and what it makes people feel like.
Youtube Read Along / Amazon