What books are published, and which writers are supported, has traditionally been defined by the privilege of the white majority. In the United States, the voices and perspectives of white writers are still overwhelmingly elevated over writers of color. Not because these stories are somehow more valuable or valid, but because of deep-seated structural inequities that exist in publishing, educational institutions, and the media.

We can change this. People who value the beauty, the diversity, and the power of words can help in many ways. Please see below for a list of resources for what you can do today to work toward more equitable publishing practices.

Increase demand for books by writers of color. Publishing is predominantly a white system, one that runs on profit. Publishers will publish books that sell. Increasing demand for books by writers of color will increase publishing opportunities for writers of color. Read widely and read thoughtfully. Read outside your comfort zone. Not sure where to start? Dotters Books in Eau Claire has curated a list of books for their Anti-Racist Book Club.
Support Black-owned bookstores. Black-owned bookstores are amazing supporters of Black writers. They give platforms and voices to those who write outside of the white viewpoint. But independent bookstores, which were already struggling in the era of online retailers, have been hard hit by the pandemic. Support Black-owned bookstores by ordering online and having books shipped to you.
Support nonprofits that support Black writers. Writers need time to write, and organizations such as Kimbilio Fiction, Hurston/Wright Foundation and Rhode Island Writers Colony offer workshops and readings that exclusively support Black writers.
Build empathy early. Building empathy starts when children are young. Children must have access to books that feature people of color, ideally those written and illustrated by people of color. In 2018, only 10% of children’s books included a Black character (for context, 50% were about white children, and 27% were about animals). Again, your purchasing power can help. EmbraceRace has many recommendations, as does PBS Kids. A Mighty Girl has curated a list specifically of picture books featuring Black girls. We Need Diverse Books produces and promotes diverse books, writers, illustrators and publishing professionals. They have also compiled a list of resources on race, equity, anti-racism, and inclusion. Empathy matters; representation matters.
Offer Book Suggestions. Not all of us have the means to purchase books or make donations. If you are an active card holder for the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library in Eau Claire, consider sending them a suggestion for purchase. Please read their Anti-Racist Pledge.
Request a Conversation Kit. Our local libraries also offer a wealth of resources on being anti-racist, including family conversation kits that can be requested through the catalog.

This partial list is only the beginning. Collectively, we must continue to build resources to work toward a more equitable publishing industry for all.