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My Black Friend Says…:Lessons in Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural Competency
My Black Friends Says… is the book we need right now. Written as a series of short essays with pauses for reflection and journaling, MBFS… explores the issue of race in a very practical, inviting, and empowering way. This book will give readers the ability to approach race issues from a position of knowledge and confidence. It teaches readers about the ways in which we develop biases, how to tackle those biases and associated emotions, and how to move forward without shame or fear. Though each essay addresses an individual issue related to inclusion and diversity in our society, the combined knowledge will allow people to see the nuances of racism, discrimination, and advocacy in America. With an appendix of suggested reading materials, study topics, and terms to know, this book provides readers with all they need to begin their journey towards being a better ally for people of color and helping themselves and others become catalysts for change.
MY Black Friend Says…Companion Guide
In this companion guide, author Delaney Rhea in collaboration with Heather Fleming creates extension and reflection activities that extend readers’ learning beyond the content found in the original book. Written in workbook style, our Companion Guide is meant to be read in concert with the original, as each section contains chapter-by-chapter activities that will deepen your understanding of the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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“If you are wanting to become an ally this book is one that is perfect to start with. Heather perfectly explains racism and it’s impact on our society and what we, as white people can do to help be allies to the black community. She also includes questions for us to ponder and spaces to respond. I read this quickly and didn’t answer the questions, but am going to read it again to respond and I will come back and give a further opinion. Whether you are a new ally or want to be a better ally, this is a must read.”
“I just finished reading this book and I could not put it down. Heather S. Fleming beautifully shows the reader why it is imperative for all humans to understand the struggles of the African American and other marginalized communities and how we can turn those lessons into actions for change. Reading “My Black Friend Says....” just made me want to be a better person. I’m absolutely going to research the 365 items in the list at the end of the book. Congrats to the author on writing a wonderfully insightful, educational and very interesting book. She is a talented writer and I very much appreciate her willingness to talk openly about issues that all humans need to understand.”
“I am a white, female educator who came from a very insulated background. I found this book approachable and helpful. It helped address questions and concerns I had about how to become a better ally and teacher. I appreciate Fleming sharing her perspective, strategies and experiences. The book is set up like a workbook and includes additional resources, some of which seem immediately relevant to my career. This is a great way to find answers to questions that some are too afraid to ask directly. I recommend this to those curious about racism and those whom seek to be a part of the solution.”
“This book is a must read. If you’re a white person who wants to know how to be an ally to people of color, please buy this book! Ms. Fleming covers all the topics you want to know about plus issues that you would have never even thought of. It makes for a great leisure read, but could also be used for required reading text for diversity training or a thoughtful gift!”
“My Black Friend Says is a great read for anyone looking to be a better ally. Heather Fleming opens by talking about leaving shame behind, but she herself goes farther leaving pretension behind. The fact is that being an ally can be difficult (though not as difficult as being a person of color, clearly). This book helps allies in three ways... First, there are really well thought out arguments in here to use when the time comes to step up. All of us have been in spots where someone says something either explicitly or implicitly racist... My Black Friend Says helps you prepare for those moments so you’re ready. Second, and most importantly, it reminds you of why you’re fighting. It’s not abstract. People of color are not a mysterious check box on census forms. People of color are equally deserving of support and opportunities as white people. And third, it’s nice to remember that allies aren’t alone, either.
So, I said that Heather leaves pretension behind.. The book covers a lot of territory and does so without condescension, and without assuming that the reader knows all the scholarly research about privilege or critical race theory or anything. She mentions multiple times that she was a teacher and I imagine her being a patient and caring teacher. That comes through.
If you’re thinking about buying the book, do it.”