Anti Racism Resources

Race and Racism are complex issues that continue to face the United States. It is an ongoing and evolving conversation.  This page is meant to be a resource for people seeking more information. None of the books, movies, websites, or other information that is listed is intended to be the “go to” for information. As a congregation, Southminster is working to engage in conversations around race and racial disparity.  There is history to learn and voices to be heard in the midst of these conversations. 

As people of faith, we know that Jesus walked with those on the margins and cared for the most vulnerable of people. We too are called to walk with those who are and have been oppressed and to work for a more just and equitable future.  The resources below are a sample of what can be found. 

For Adults: 
White Fragility – Robin DiAnglo
Referring to the defensive moves that white people make when challenged racially, white fragility is characterized by emotions such as anger, fear, and guilt, and by behaviors including argumentation and silence. These behaviors, in turn, function to reinstate white racial equilibrium and prevent any meaningful cross-racial dialogue.

Exploring White Fragility: Debating the Effects of Whiteness Studies on America’s Schools – Christopher Paslay
A longtime Philadelphia public school teacher, Paslay uses existing research and anecdotal classroom observations to examine the effects of whiteness studies in America’s schools. He also investigates how the antiracist movement to dismantle “white supremacy culture” is impacting student and teacher morale and expectations, school discipline, and overall academic achievement.

Stamped From the Beginning –  Ibram X Kendi
The winner of the National Book Award in Nonfiction, Stamped from the Beginning should be required reading for anyone who still believes we are living in a post-racial America. In this eye-opening book, author Ibram X. Kendi explains not only the many ways in which racism is alive and well in the United States, but also exactly why it’s still a deeply entrenched piece of our nation’s identity.

Caste – Isabela Wilkerson

Between the World and Me – Ta-Nehisi Coates

The Sum of Us – What Racism Costs Everyone and How we Can Prosper Together – Heather McGhee

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot

History of Racism in Kansas City – G.S. Griffin

Funny You Don’t Look Asian – Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow

Resources from Heartland Presbytery Three Year Initiative Committee

For Youth:
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You – Jason Reynolds and Ibram X Kendi

18 YA Books to Diversify your Kids’ Bookshelves and Make them Better Allies –  Popsugar Family

Children’s Books
Antiracism Baby – Ibram X Kendi
A Kids Book About Racism – Jelani Memory

Videos/Podcasts/
Systemic Racism Explained – video

CNN/Sesame Street Town Hall on Racism – video

Talking About Race Virtual Exhibit – National Museum of African American History and Culture

Being Anti Racist: A Primer – from Synod of Mid America

Deconstructing White Privilege  – Video with Robin DiAngelo

Movies
Just Mercy
The Hate U Give
Remember the Titans
Selma
Hidden Figures
Ruby Bridges

Links to Other Resources: