Among many important things, civil rights activist and Congressman John Lewis was famous for using the term “good trouble” when speaking on fighting against injustice in this country.

“Speak up, speak out, get in the way. Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.”

“What can you do to get into good trouble? There is a light inside of you that will turn on when you get into good trouble. You will feel emboldened and freed. You will realize that unjust laws cannot stop you. These laws cannot stop the truth that is in your heart and soul.”

“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”

– John Lewis

Note: If you are interested in learning more about the life of  John Lewis, I highly recommend the March trilogy of graphic novels.

Each entry in this new blog series will highlight books in our collection that might inspire you towards activism or provide you some ways to cause some “good trouble” fighting against societal injustices.

Anti-Racist Art Activities for Kids: 30+ Creative Projects that Celebrate Diversity and Inspire Change by Abigail Birhanu, Khadesia Latimer, Paula Liz, Lori Santos, Tamara Slade and Anjali Wells
Library Catalog

Broken down into six sections – Identity, Culture, Community, Empathy, Justice, and Activism – this book of art projects by members of the national Anti-Racist Art Teachers Collective is a great starting point for kids to learn about anti-racism, activism, and many art skills. Some projects encourage self-reflection, some focus on community, and all provoke a move towards action. Each project includes a “Why This Matters,” detailed instructions and helpful photographs to illustrate the art-making process.

I love art project books and this one easily moved into my list of favorites. The projects are unique, interesting, and will create conversations and actively thinking about, and engaging with, the topics. The introductions to each section provide thoughtful definitions to set the stage for how the artwork reflects upon the topic and spurs action on the topic. It is the latter that really sets this book apart – it is not just about art process and projects. Anti-Racist Art Activities for Kids is really about art as activism and as an agent of positive change.