BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) Voices is a book discussion group intended to encourage an understanding of systemic racism, privilege, and biases to help disrupt racial inequalities and racism. Together the group will foster knowledge, empathy and understanding of the experiences, identities and history of people in the BIPOC community. We will explore these titles through an anti-racism lens to allow for open and honest conversations in a safe, respectful environment.
So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
Wednesday, May 19 at 7 PM
Beverly Common (Rain date: May 26. Bring a blanket or beach chair!)
This title is geared to adults, but all ages are welcome.
Talking about race can feel intimidating and overwhelming, but conversations – and action – are needed to dismantle racism in our society. This passionate and informative book explores topics such as privilege, police brutality, microaggressions, intersectionality, the Black Lives Matter movement, and more. In each of the 17 chapters, Oluo answers questions readers might hesitate to ask, such as “What if I talk about race wrong?” and “Talking is great, but what else can I do?” to foster a deeper understanding of the racial divide and how to help create real change in the fight against racial oppression.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
Wednesday, June 16 at 7 PM
Beverly Common (Rain date: June 23. Bring a blanket or beach chair!)
This title is geared to teens, but all ages are welcome.
When an innocent attempt to help his ex turns into a run in with a cop and a night spent in handcuffs, Justyce turns to Martin Luther King, Jr. to attempt to make sense of the world and his place in it. When faced with one of the most challenging moments of his life, how will asking “What would Martin do?” help Justyce navigate being a young black man in America?
Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parker Rhodes
Wednesday, July 21 at 7 PM
Beverly Common (Rain date: July 28. Bring a blanket or beach chair!)
This title is geared to grades 4-6, but all ages are welcome.
Donte, who has darker skin than his brother, experiences more racism than his brother at their private middle school, facing intolerance and injustice from school administrators and some students. Will Donte find empowerment through fencing at the local Boys and Girls Club?
BIPOC Voices is a partnership between Abu Toppin, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director for the City of Beverly, and the Beverly Public Library.
Children’s Books Celebrating Black Voices & Stories
We invite you to explore these wonderful children’s books created by Black authors and illustrators.
