#Anti-racist parenting
#Anti-racist parenting
When I was in law school Jessie Jackson spoke at my graduation and I will never forget how he inspired me to keep hope alive! Indeed, there is power in love, especially in these times I want to go on record as one who encouraged love. How much more so with the young, toddlers, pre- schoolers, no one is born hating another, we can teach them to love by investing our time and money into anti-racist parenting.
Building an anti-racist household is less about a single “big talk” and more about the ongoing stories we share. Research from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center (CCBC) highlights why this matters: while diversity in publishing is improving, as of recent years, only about 12-15% of children’s books featured Black lead characters, and even fewer for other marginalized groups. That is sad, but we can change it, intentionally, one parent at a time.
By curating a diverse bookshelf, parents can move beyond “colorblindness” and actively celebrate the richness of the human experience. Here are ten essential books to help guide those conversations.
1. Cherub: The Human Race by Jacqueline Levermore
This is a foundational pick for the “why” behind our appearances. By following Douglas as he explores the beauty of human variety, parents can introduce the concept that diversity is a purposeful and beautiful part of our world. It bridges the gap between noticing differences and celebrating them.
2. One Love by Cedella Marley
Based on her father’s legendary song, this book focuses on the “action” of community. Anti-racism is rooted in the idea that we are responsible for one another. Through vibrant illustrations, children see that when we work together across all backgrounds, we can “get together and feel alright.”
3. Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed
Focusing on the childhood of Mae Jemison, this story is vital for teaching children about representation in STEM and the importance of dreaming big despite societal expectations. It honors the resilience required to be a “first” and the power of parental support in the face of bias.
4. I Love Myself by Wai Mei Wong
An anti-racist world starts with children who are emotionally secure. This book helps kids develop a positive self-image and healthy internal dialogue. When a child is taught to love their own unique traits and handle their big emotions with grace, they are far more likely to extend that same grace to others.
5. We’re Different, We’re Same by Sesame Street (Bobbi Kates)
Elmo and the gang provide one of the most accessible lessons on diversity ever written. By comparing noses, hair, and skin, the book teaches a simple but profound logic: our “parts” might look different, but they serve the same purposes and belong to the same human family. It’s a classic for a reason.
6. When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner
This rhythmic, beautifully illustrated book offers a spiritual perspective on identity. It reassures children that their race, personality, and talents were intentional designs by a Creator. For many parents, teaching that every person is an “image-bearer” is the strongest possible argument against racism.
7. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
This story about a young girl from Korea helps children understand the importance of cultural heritage. It teaches kids to be “allies” by learning to pronounce unfamiliar names correctly and appreciating the history behind them, rather than expecting others to “assimilate” to fit in.
8. Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
This book is a masterclass in empathy. By following CJ and his grandmother through their diverse urban neighborhood, children learn to see the dignity and beauty in every person they pass on the street, regardless of their skin color or economic status.
9. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
This book presents a vision of a world where diversity isn’t just tolerated—it’s the guest of honor. It shows a classroom where every tradition and background is woven into the fabric of the day, helping children recognize that a “normal” environment is an inclusive one.
10. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
By centering a Black father and daughter and the beauty of natural hair, this book directly counters narrow beauty standards. It’s a joyful, tender story that reinforces the idea that all hair textures are beautiful and worthy of “love.”