Christine' Corner: Widening Our Circles
In her book Raising White Kids: Bringing Up Children In a Racially Unjust America, Jennifer Harvey encourages her readers to change the narrative that has been spoken to them for years about black bodies and their significance in this world. She says that we can "exert a great deal of decision making power about what we do day-to-day"-(the books we read, the films we watch, the social and political work we engage in)- and we can shape our habits and have a greater impact on the world around us because of these decisions. But in order to do that, we must first be introduced and open to experiences that are outside our white circles. Below you will find a list of books, podcasts and local shops all written and owned by POC. It is time that we draw our circles wider!
A native Greenvillian, Woodson is an author of both children and adolescent books. She is best known for her books "Miracle's Boys" and her Newberry Honor winning book "Brown Girl Dreaming", some of which is set in the section of Greenville known as Nickeltown. Her newest novel is "Red At The Bone" which was published on September 17th. Go and check out all of her incredible works of art.
On her website, you can find Lettie's podcast, along with other very important historical information and present day conversations around the Black Lives Matter Movement. She also provides a space for motivation and inspiration as we walk through life and grow from our experiences. Her blog posts and podcasts are wonderful platforms to use as we begin or continue imperative conversations on racism not just with ourselves, but with our children as well.
The Sweet Life- This is a locally owned sweets shop, owned and operated by a couple who grew up in Taylors, SC, met at Wade Hampton High School, fell in love and started a family. I have not personally been there, but a friend of mine recommended this place. Go and check it out the next time you have a sweet tooth craving!
Address: 27 Rushmore Drive Greenville 29615
Hours: Thursday - Saturday 12 to 6 and Sunday 12 to 4
Solo!West End- When I was looking up locally owned POC businesses, this was one that came up. I do not know anything about it, and have not been there, but this will be a shop that I visit soon. Hope you will too!