The banning of books south of the border is scary. It also feels just far enough away to convince me that we are immune here in Canada to such backwards steps in critical thought. But that’s not true and, called out by the words of
, burying my head in the sand does nothing to mitigate “the generalizing, pathologizing, and stereotyping that’s already rampant in these un-rigorous virtual streets.”With Good Enough I recognize that I have a chance to share ideas with people that support critical thinking and radical collegiality. That support care and joy.
So, whether you’re teaching in a classroom or educating (and being educated!) in some other way, I want to share a few links with you. Maybe they’ll prove useful for your own learning. Maybe you’ll share a link or two with someone else who needs them.
Merriam-Websiter says that to be alive is to be aware and cognizant. The word implies vigilance in observation.
But to be all of these things — to be truly alive — requires knowledge and knowledge requires access. Let’s take that definition to heart and read for our lives:
As we think about the choices we make around what we buy and wear and eat here are a few thinkers you can look to. The first one is a little older but all three offer critical thought prompts for key facets of our day-to-day.
Ordinary Notes by Christina Sharpe is a “radical reading of Black life.” Her newest book is described by the New York Times as being comprised of “memories, observations, artifacts and artworks — fragments attesting to the persistence of prejudice while allowing glimpses of something like hope.” Sidenote: I ran into her once at
(Type Books in Toronto) and had a fangirl moment (that was a little embarrassing when I stop and think about it). Here’s a tweet she posted today. The fangirling continues.
Afoma Umesi’s reading lists for Middle Grade and YA books. Parents and teachers in your life will appreciate how carefully she has curated lists like this one.
As you read for your life this weekend please share your thoughts (in the comments or by email). Sending the very best Good Enough vibes your way!