This month, we celebrate Black History Month at Eastown by honoring the incredible accomplishments and courage of Black men and women who have helped shape our nation's history and culture. Their resilience continues to inspire us today.

Although the honoring of the black community should not be limited to just one month, our celebration in this cultural moment is both critical and necessary. As statements and decisions are being made that chip away at equity and devalue people of color in our nation, our engagement matters.

We desire to be a community that does not turn away from the hard things in our world and we want to intentionally place ourselves in a posture of listening and learning from our Black brothers and sisters, which will help stretch our perspective and help to grow our empathy in a way that moves us to action. Action steps we encourage you towards include, but are not limited to, exploring a new resource, engaging in a new conversation, pursuing a new friendship, or supporting a new organization.

We invite you to explore our collection of resources, including websites, books, devotionals, podcasts, and children’s literature, all aimed at deepening our understanding and fostering empathy. By expanding the diversity of voices we engage with, supporting Black-owned businesses and nonprofits, and taking active steps toward justice and love, we continue to grow in our commitment to a more inclusive and just world, which we believe reflects the heart of Jesus. Tap below to learn more.

SUPPORT EJI

We invite you to explore videos, books, and other resources that encourage reflection and growth throughout this month. Check out one of our Love Local partners EJI, the work they are doing, their resources and even download this free calendar.

DEVOTIONALS

BOOKS

How We Love Mattersa by Albert Tate Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson How to Fight Racism by Jemar Tisby I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown Be the Bridge: Pursuing God’s Heart for Racial Reconciliation by Latasha Morrison Color of Compromise by Jemar Tisby Courageous Conversations About Race by Glenn E. Singleton

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MEDIA

Resources for Children

Raising Kids Who Will Initiate Racial Equality

Tips for Talking to Kids About Racism and Social Unrest

There are a number of books we recommend to talk to your child about diversity, racism and justice. See our top three selections below and then scroll through the images below to see more.

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1. A Kids Book about Racism by Jelani Memory

“A Kids Book about Racism” is a great book to read together with your child to start the conversation about racism. It has a clear explanation of what racism is and how to recognize it when you see it. This book makes this conversation approachable for all kids but was written specifically with elementary ages in mind.

2. Dreams Come True for Black Girls Too! by Jalen Seawright

In February of 2020 Karington and Kaidence went on a journey with their parents to learn about women in Black History. They quickly went viral after donning outfits dressed as famous African Women both living and past in order to learn about the impact that they had. Through their journey they not only learned about the amazing Black Women who paved the way for so many others, they also learned that as little growing Black Women, their dreams too are possible.

3. ColorFull: Celebrating the Colors God Gave Us by Dorena Williamson

“ColorFull” is a book about two friends who are learning to celebrate their different skin colors as they look around and see the amazing creativity of God through His creation in nature and in themselves. This book teaches kids to celebrate each color God gave us and encourages kids to see the beauty of God's creativity in everyone. This book is perfect for both preschool and elementary kids.

Following Jesus