Let's Learn from Each Other

Hi mamas. How are you doing?

The past week and a half has been indescribably challenging, especially for members of the black community in the United States. To our mamas in those communities we want you to know that we see you, we hear you, and although we cannot imagine your pain, we want to -- and will -- continue supporting you, your health and your wellness in every way that we can.

Our goal will always be to provide all mothers with the resources needed to live a healthy pregnancy and postpartum. We're firm believers that information leads to empowerment. That's the ultimate goal of what we do: giving you trusted information so you can be empowered to make the best choices for your health and happiness, both as a woman and as a mother.

Right now, we know that all mothers may be feeling the incredible weight of raising the next generation to be kinder, more compassionate, and unaccepting of a world that allows for racial inequality and injustice. The onus is immense, but not impossible. Here too, we must turn to trusted and powerful sources of information to empower us in this endeavor. It's more important than ever to listen to the voices of others on topics we don't know enough about, so we can all be better informed of the reality of the world we share in order to work towards a better one together.

We're fully taking part in that, too. We're educating ourselves, broadening our research, and reflecting on what we're giving all of you -- because we want everyone to feel represented and understood here.

We don't have all of the answers to the expansive challenges we're facing. But while we're learning, we want to share voices that have made an impact on us, so we can all learn together. This list is by no means expansive or complete when it comes to understanding racism, women's inequality, and injustice. But we hope it gives you a starting point if you're looking for one.

As you navigate this experience as a parent, we encourage you to look to each other and learn from each other. It's never too early to talk to your kids about race, and the best way we can educate our children is by first educating ourselves and understanding stories that are different from our own. As you take some time to yourself to read, learn, and absorb, please know we'll be right there with you.

Books for you

Americanah

by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Adichie's award-winning novel tells the story of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who immigrates to the United States. It follows her experience growing up, attending university, and discovering herself in an unfamiliar (and often unwelcoming) world.
Find it here

Between the World and Me

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Toni Morrison called Coates' elegant, lyrical personal narrative "required reading". Intertwining his personal life, love for his son, and historical events, this is a living, breathing exploration of tumultuous adolescence and self-discovery.
Find it here

Beloved

by Toni Morrison

Morrison's Pulitzer Prize winning novel follows Sethe, an escaped slave, who is visited by an apparition that threatens to drag her back into her past. Although painfully rooted in a challenging reality, the novel's discussion of family, motherhood, and community make this a compelling read that will shape how you see the world around you.
Find it here

Thick: and Other Essays

by Tressie McMillan Cottom

This smart, witty debut delves into what it means to be thick --in body, and in substance. McMillan Cottom's collection of essays tackles black womanhood, beauty standards, class mobility, and more. A powerful read for all women.
Find it here

Ain't I a Woman

by bell hooks

If you're passionate about the feminist movement this is a must-read. bell hooks' first book is the foundation of her critical work on intersectional feminism. In 'Ain't I A Woman', hooks examines the effects of racism and sexism on black women in conjunction with the feminist movement.
Find it here

Books for little ones

The Colors of Us

by Karen Katz
Ages 2-5

Follow Lena on a colorful walk through her neighborhood as she discovers that everyone is a wonderful shade, uniquely their own.
Find it here

A is for Activist

by Innosanto Nagara
Ages 3-7

This engaging and fun ABC book teaches children how to show love, compassion, and inspires hope for the future.
Find it here

Not my Idea

by Anastasia Higginbotham
Ages 8-12

After a white child sees TV coverage of violence, she has some questions--this is what she finds out.
Note: you can download the PDF for free through June 19
Find it here

Song of the Trees

by Mildred Taylor
Age 10+

The first installation in the acclaimed Logan family series, this novella teaches the importance of love when the family's land is threatened.
Find it here

Podcasts

Code Switch

from NPR

Code Switch tackles the big issues head-on, and discusses the questions you never thought to ask. They're quick but impactful listens.

NATAL

from You Had Me At Black x The Woodshaw

A docuseries that shares real stories about having a baby while black in the United States. Also featuring medical professionals, researchers, and advocates working for better care for Black birthing parents.

Good Ancestor Podcast

by Layla F. Saad

Change-makers and culture-shapers join anti-racism educator and best-selling author, Layla Saad, discussing what it means to be a good ancestor.

Join the conversation

We want to know what you're reading, listening to, watching, and thinking. Join the conversation over on our Instagram.