The theme for Black History Month 2021 is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity.” The family is one of the most important support systems we have in our society, and it can provide the first chance to introduce children to ideas, strengths, and opportunities that can help shape the rest of their lives. The family can also be a safe haven and a source of love and support, a beacon in a child’s world. A family can be as small as a child and single parent or as large as a community. From two parent households to extended family helping raise children to multigenerational households, the family unit plays an especially important role among Black people.
Through literature, families can find an endless resource to help raise children up by introducing them to people and stories that inspire them to reach their full potential and grow in strength and confidence. We can find stories to help us grow in empathy and better understand the struggles and triumphs for Black freedoms throughout history and today. In normalizing diversity and inclusion for our children, we can find inspiration to grow, understand each other, and build a better future for all.
Here are some of the many wonderful children’s books that can give Black families and families of all colors a beautiful beginning place from which to grow.