This month’s theme is Uplifting Marginalized Voices to help you support those who have been historically marginalized and get involved in making change. We are the change. We are the future. Changing the world begins today!
THIS MONTH’S BOOK
On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
When sixteen-year-old Bri, an aspiring rapper, pours her anger and frustration into her first song, she finds herself at the center of a controversy when she is portrayed by the media as more menace than MC.
But with an eviction notice staring her family down, Bri doesn’t just want to make it–she has to. Even if it means becoming the very thing the public has made her out to be.
Insightful, unflinching, and full of heart, On the Come Up is an ode to hip hop from one of the most influential literary voices of a generation. It is the story of fighting for your dreams, even as the odds are stacked against you; and about how, especially for young black people, freedom of speech isn’t always free.
Listen to author Angie Thomas talk about the book, how real life events inspired parts of the story, and hear her rap a bit at the end!
Find books representing other voices to broaden your reading!
TAG You're It Podcast
Read the Uplifting Voices Pack Insert
AT HOME
FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS
Use embroidery floss to make a friendship bracelet for a cause. Below are two how-to videos to get you started!
Sophie's Spotify Playlist
Uplifting Marginalized Voices
Striving for social justice is the most valuable thing to do in life.
-Albert Einsein
TIPS FOR BEING AN ALLY
RESEARCH
Do some background research on the movement and organizations surrounding it. What do they stand for? What needs to happen next?
DON’T PRACTICE PERFORMATIVE ALLYSHIP
Changing your profile picture to a black square in protest for Black Lives Matter doesn’t do much to solve racism. You’re using someone else’s struggles to make yourself seem morally superior. Look for ways to make a real impact on people who live in your community.
GET COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE
You’re bound to make mistakes when it comes to allyship. Remember that it’s important to own up to mistakes and learn from them, but be patient with yourself.
SHOW UP
Ally is a verb. It’s good to say you’re one, but it’s important to come through and step up in situations where it’s appropriate and safe to do so.
LISTEN AND MAKE SPACE
It’s critical that as an ally you listen to those around you. If you’re in a position of privilege, use it to make space for and amplify marginalized voices!
IN THE COMMUNITY
Click the buttons below to find out more about organizations that support marginalized voices!