How to Be a (Young) Antiracist
#1 of 33 in Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (400)
What’s inside...
In 'How to Be a (Young) Antiracist,' Dr. Ibram X. Kendi provides a comprehensive guide for young people to understand and fight against racism. The book explores the definition of racism, its various manifestations, and its impact on society. Kendi emphasizes the importance of self-education, introspection, and collective action in dismantling racist structures. He motivates young readers to adopt an antiracist identity and engage in activism, while also discussing intersectionality, allyship, and the influence of power and policy in sustaining racism. Personal stories and historical examples are used throughout the book to explain these concepts, making it both accessible and inspiring for young individuals wanting to contribute positively to their communities and the world.
Discussion points
What are some ways you can show kindness and fairness to everyone at school?
How do the characters in the book stand up against unfairness? Can you think of a time when you did something similar?
What does it mean to be antiracist? How can we practice this every day?
Why is it important to understand and celebrate everyone's differences?
How do you think you would feel if you were treated unfairly because of your skin color or where you come from?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own feelings about the book's themes and ask your child to do the same. This demonstrates openness and sets a comfortable tone for the discussion.
Encourage your child to think of specific examples from their own life that relate to the situations presented in the book, enhancing personal connection.
Praise your child for expressing their thoughts and feelings, even if they have difficulty articulating them. This will boost their confidence to participate in such discussions.
Discuss the idea of fairness and equality in contexts outside the book, such as in a favorite movie or among friends, to broaden understanding.
Revisit the book’s themes after some days; continuous conversation helps deepen understanding and retention of antiracist concepts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating diversity
Explanation: The book encourages young readers to recognize and respect differences in people’s races, cultures, and backgrounds.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing inclusivity in their classrooms and playgrounds, making friends from diverse backgrounds, and learning about different cultures.
Example Lesson: Importance of empathy
Explanation: Through various scenarios, the book illustrates how putting oneself in another's shoes fosters understanding and combats racism.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice empathy by being considerate of how their words and actions affect others, and by standing up for peers who are treated unfairly.
Example Lesson: The power of voice in advocacy
Explanation: The narrative empowers readers to speak out against racial injustices and to support fairness for everyone.
Real-World Application: Children can use their voices by participating in discussions about fairness at school, sharing stories that champion equality, and learning to respectfully express their views.
Example Lesson: Responsibility of being informed
Explanation: It underscores the significance of gaining knowledge about different races and cultures as a tool to dismantle racism.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to read books, watch films, and participate in activities that broaden their understanding of the world and its diverse inhabitants.
Example Lesson: The impact of collective action
Explanation: The book demonstrates how collaboration and solidarity in anti-racist actions can effect change.
Real-World Application: Children can engage in group activities that promote inclusivity, share educational materials about anti-racism with friends, and contribute to projects that aim to create positive change in their communities.