A letter from R.E.

Dear High Street

In these complex times, many parents and caregivers are wondering how to discuss politics, fascism , and social justice issues with their children in age-appropriate ways. As Unitarian Universalists, we value truth, justice, and compassion, and we believe in nurturing our children’s understanding of the world while respecting their developmental stages.

Below, you’ll find book recommendations, discussion tips, and resources to help guide these important conversations.

Early Childhood and Elementary:

Alejandria Fights Back! / ¡La Lucha de Alejandria! By Leticia Hernandez-Linares. Alejandria fights rent gouging in her mostly immigrant Miami neighborhood.

Barrio Rising by Maria Dolores Aguila. The protest that build Chicano Park

Bobbin Girl by Emily Arnold McCully. Historical fiction based on a true story about the Lowell textile workers

Freedom on the Menu by Carole Boston Weatherford. The Greensboro sit-ins

The Harvey Milk Story by Kari Krakow

We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom. Inspired by the may Indigenous-led movements across North America

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara. Introduces social justice concepts in an engaging ABC format.

We March by Shane W. Evans. A simple, powerful story about the 1963 March on Washington.

The Youngest Marcher by Cynthia Levinson. The true story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, the youngest child to march for civil rights.

What Can a Citizen Do? by Dave Eggers. Explores civic engagement and democracy.

Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness by Anastasia Higginbotham. Helps kids understand racism and privilege.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

The Assignment by Liza Wiemer. Inspired by a real-life incident, this riveting novel explores discrimination and antisemitism and reveals their dangerous impact.

Come out and Win: Organizing yourself, your community and your world by Sue Hyde

Love is a Revolution by Renee Watson

Being Heumann by Judith Heumann. A memory of a disability rights activist.

How We Win by Geroge Lakey. A Guide to nonviolent direct-action campaigning

Let This Radicalize You by Kelly Hayes. About organizing and the revolutions of reciprocal care

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi. A teen friendly adaptation of *Stamped from the Beginning*.

This Book is Anti-Racist by Tiffany Jewell . A guide to understanding and dismantling racism.

How I Resist: Activism and Hope for a New Generation edited by Maureen Johnson. Essays on youth activism.

– Tips for Discussing Politics with Kids

1. Start with Values: Frame discussions around UU principles (JET-PIG!).

2. Keep It Age-Appropriate: Younger kids need simple explanations; teens can handle more complexity.

3. Encourage Questions: Let kids guide the conversation based on their curiosity.

4. Focus on Empowerment: Discuss ways they can take action (letter-writing, protests, community service).

5. Model Respectful Dialogue: Show how to disagree with others while maintaining dignity.

Our faith calls us to raise informed, compassionate children who seek justice. By engaging in these conversations, we help them grow into thoughtful, engaged citizens.

In love,

Paula Del Rio – DRE

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