Colorblind
A Story of Racism
by Johnathan Harris
Colorblind – Johnathan’s story of multiculturalism – is a gripping story of a 15-year-old boy who had his civil rights violated by police officers in Long Beach, California. Jonathan’s uncle, who was in prison at the time, teaches the young boy how to deal with racism by seeing the world through a multicultural lens rather than the color of people’s skin. In the end, the two bestow upon each other the most valuable gift of all: freedom.
Publication Date: April 16, 2019
ISBN: 9781947378124
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EDUCATOR'S SUPPLEMENT
Downloadable Guide
Contains: vocabulary activity, student worksheet and answer key, discussion topics, writing prompts, extension activities, and a reading comprehension test.
HIGH 5
Five Parent Take-Aways About Racism
Culture, not skin color, matters most.
America is a melting pot of cultures. It’s what makes our country so great. In order to truly honor each other, we must embrace and take a genuine interest in our various backgrounds. Our differences provide the foundation upon which every man, woman, and child can be equal.
There are good cops and bad cops, but mostly great cops.
Law enforcement is a tough job. It is not until you walk in the shoes of a police officer that you can truly understand the complexity and dangers involved in keeping civilians safe. In my 30-year career, I’ve found one immutable truth: Most people in law enforcement are great at what they do. It’s not a money job. It’s a calling and passion for service.
If you do not want your kids to grow up angry, listen with a kind and patient heart.
It’s no secret racism still plays a significant role in our country. Parents, speak with your children about their daily lives. If something hurts their feelings, listen and teach them to “lead with patient love” and to find effective ways of dealing with the world.
Social media is where a lot of fires start.
We all know the big three social media sites. For parents, my strong suggestion is that you know the passwords and monitor what your children are consuming and serving on social media. Be “friends” with them on social media so you can be engaged in what they are posting. Young people are more apt to lash out online as a cry for help or to vent justified frustration. This is your cue to put out the fire by speaking one-on-one with your child, and providing other supportive services.
Reacquaint yourself with the works of Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, and Maya Angelou.
We grew up consuming iconic works/orations, such as “I Have A Dream” (MLK), Long Walk to Freedom (Mandela), and I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Angelou). Read these with your children. It’s important for young people, especially young African American boys and girls, to understand how these pillars of truth have made positive changes for every race, creed, and color.
ABOUT THE EXPERTS
Robert W. Clark
Robert W. Clark is a Former Senior FBI Official who served as the Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the city of Los Angeles. After a 30-year career, Mr. Clark oversaw various criminal programs for the FBI, including the Gang and Violent Crime Units.
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