Black Birds in the Sky: The Story and Legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre
on Goodreads (3,641)
What’s inside...
Black Birds in the Sky: The Story and Legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre by Brandy Colbert is a poignant exploration of one of the most devastating events in American history. The book delves into the racial tensions and historical context that led to the violent attack on the prosperous Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, known as 'Black Wall Street.' Over the course of 24 hours, a white mob destroyed the neighborhood, leaving hundreds of Black residents dead and thousands more homeless. Colbert not only recounts the harrowing events but also examines the aftermath, including the silence and denial that followed for decades. The book highlights the resilience of the Black community and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition. Colbert's work serves as a crucial reminder of the impact of racial violence and the importance of remembering and learning from the past.
Discussion points
How did the events in Tulsa in 1921 impact the community described in the book?
Why is it important to remember and discuss historical events like the Tulsa Race Massacre?
What feelings did you experience while reading about the events in this book?
How can we apply the lessons learned from this book to today's society?
What are some ways we can support and promote equality and understanding in our own community?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reflections on the book to encourage an open and honest dialogue.
Ask your child to think about how the people in the book might have felt during the events. This can help children develop empathy.
Encourage your child to relate the historical events to current events by discussing similarities and differences. This helps them understand the relevance of history.
Highlight the importance of learning from the past to build a better future, reinforcing the book's educational value.
Listen actively to your child’s thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their responses to foster a supportive conversation environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding historical injustices
Explanation: The book delves into the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, providing detailed historical context and personal narratives.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of recognizing and understanding societal injustices, fostering a mindset of empathy and fairness in their interactions with diverse communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: The narrative showcases how the Black community of Tulsa rebuilt and persevered despite overwhelming odds.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of resilience and courage, encouraging them to face their own challenges with determination and hope.
Example Lesson: The importance of historical memory
Explanation: The book emphasizes the role of memory in honoring past events and the identities of those affected by the massacre.
Real-World Application: Children can understand the importance of remembering and honoring history, which can foster a sense of identity and community belonging.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking about history
Explanation: By presenting a comprehensive look at the events leading up to and following the massacre, the book encourages readers to think critically about historical narratives.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children assess information, understand different perspectives, and form educated opinions about historical events and their impact on current society.
Example Lesson: Empathy through storytelling
Explanation: Personal stories of the victims and survivors of the massacre are shared, giving a human face to the historical events.
Real-World Application: Learning about the personal impacts of historical events can cultivate a deeper sense of empathy and understanding in children, guiding how they interact with others who have different life experiences.