5 Books to Better Understand Various Forms of Racism

Author Erica Banas // Rock Music Reporter

February 8th, 2021 12:07 PM

Following the worldwide Black Lives Matter/police brutality protests that took place in the summer of 2020, the United States became more engaged in discussions regarding racism throughout its history and how it remains prevalent today.

Racism is more than just slurs and outward discrimination; it is deeply entrenched in society in ways many don’t realize. To better understand racism in its many forms, consider checking out these five books.

• How to Be an Antiracist

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  Written by Ibram X. Kendi, 'How to Be an Antiracist' is described as "an essential work for anyone who wants to go beyond the awareness of racism to the next step: contributing to the formation of a just and equitable society."

• Between the World and Me

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  Author/journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates' moving 2015 book examines America's long history with racism - as well as Coates' own experience with racism - in the form of a letter from Coates to his own teenage son. 'Between the World and Me' went on to win 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction and was adapted into a 2020 special for HBO.

• You’ll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey: Crazy Stories about Racism

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  Amber Ruffin, best known as the host of Peacock's 'The Amber Ruffin Show' and writer for 'Late Night with Seth Meyers,' co-wrote this book with her sister, Lacey Lamar. The book examines the many racist experiences - from the absurd to the offensive - Lamar has had while growing up and living in Nebraska.
• When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir

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  'When They Call You a Terrorist' is co-authored by Patrisse Cullors, one of the co-founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, and it examines Cullors' experience with law enforcement while growing up in an impoverished Los Angeles neighborhood.

• White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism

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  Written by racial and social justice educator Robin DiAngelo, White Fragility examines the ways white people defend themselves when they are challenged on their conscience or sub-conscience racial biases, how these defenses reinstate racial inequality and what can be done to help establish a meaningful dialogue between various races.

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Author Erica Banas // Rock Music Reporter

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