How White Parents Can Use Media to Raise Anti-Racist Kids

Parents of Black and Brown kids know that instilling their kids with a sense of racial identity and talking about how racism will inevitably affect their lives — and possibly even their safety — are essential life lessons. Parents of White kids, on the other hand, often don’t feel the same pressure. But as racist violence continues to erupt, discussing race, racism, and the history of racial oppression in the United States and the world is just as essential for White families. These are not easy conversations to have, but movies, TV, and books — as well as other media and tech — can be powerful tools to help you get started. Remember, media makes a big impression on kids. But the messages you send — from the media you choose, to the conversations you initiate — are what kids will hold in their hearts and minds long after the final credits.
Here are 10 ideas for how to use media to start and continue conversations about race and racism with your kids. This list is not exhaustive, so if you have other ideas, please add them to the comments.