We are outraged at the persistent unequal treatment of Black men, women and children.
We believe all humans have the right to equality and justice. That we should teach our children to be confident in their own skin color and find beauty in our differences. That we should teach them kindness, empathy and compassion.
This is a generational and systemic issue that requires an effort on the part of ALL Americans to fix. We believe that the greatest impact we can make is to be teaching our children to be better than we are.
We also realize that this will not be fixed overnight. With a blackout day or week or month. We realize that you have likely been inundated with emails similar to this one. As a minority-owned business, we feel it particularly important to set a precedent - today and going forward — and continually share resources that help you teach your children about race and racism.
Speaking directly about these issues has been proven to change systemic bias and prejudice. We aim to be a resource going forward and add to our content so you can stay engaged with the topic.
We hope you take some time to learn more and act. Thank you for your partnership in making this country a safer place for Black communities.
With love,
Pallavi Golla
Founder, Lark Adventurewear
Resources for Talking About Race
with Young Children
Experts say that it is never too early to start talking to your children about race. We know that it can seem overwhelming to tackle such a complex topic with babies and little children, so we have gathered some resources, books, and experts to help you navigate these important and necessary conversations.
Resources:
THE EVERYMOM, a helpful and concise breakdown of why it is important to talk about race with your kids.
The Washington Post, an important perspective on why now is the time to be starting these important conversations.
Beyond the Golden Rule, a toolkit that covers teaching tolerance to children ages 2-17.
National Geographic, covers talking to your very young children about race.
NPR's Life Kit Podcast, this episode covers talking race with young children, and the corresponding article is also full of advice and resources.
Center For Racial Justice In Education, has continued to compile this document with interviews with experts, resources, articles, and more.
ROMPER, a letter to white parents. Self-assessment and questions on how to improve your child's relationship with people of other races.
Books:
In addition to these books that speak about our differences and race, it's equally important to share stories with your kids that have protagonists of all colors and backgrounds.
A is for Activist, an ABC board book to help kids grow up in a space where they can be passionate about activism. Ages 3-7
We're Different, We're the Same (Sesame Street), our good friends on Sesame Street teach us that we may all look different on the outside, but what's most important is that deep down we're all very much alike. Ages 3-7
The Skin I'm In: A First Look at Racism, this book encourages kids to be accepting and comfortable with differences in skin color and other characteristics among their friends and themselves.
Something Happened in Our Town, the story helps to answer children's questions about traumatic events around a police shooting of a black man in their community. It also has an extensive guideline for parents and caregivers on how to discuss race and racism with children. Ages 4-8
The King of Kindergarten, a confident little boy takes on his first day of kindergarten. Ages 3-6
Sulwe, this beautiful picture book tells a heartwarming story to inspire children to see their own unique beauty. Ages 4-8
Mae Among the Stars, a beautiful picture book for sharing and marking special occasions, inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison.
Happy in Our Skin, Is there anything more splendid than a baby’s skin? Cocoa-brown, cinnamon, peaches and cream. As children grow, their clever skin does, too, enjoying hugs and tickles, protecting them inside and out, and making them one of a kind.
Experts:
Parenting and education through a critical race lens, @theconcisouskid.
Diversity & Inclusion Expert, @hereweread, helps to find diverse books, educational products, and raise curious kids.
The host of the podcast, My American Melting Pot, @myamericanmeltingpot, shares her wisdom from her multicultural lifestyle and family.
A community of support to help raise a brave generation, @embracerace, identifies and organizes the tools and resources needed to help raise children who are racial advocates.