Literal About Literacy Book Club

A few months ago, we started a book club mainly just discussing books that we read via sporadic phone calls/ emails when able (it’s really expensive to do either). We have received another huge donation of books from the celebrated journalist, now famed, best-selling author, Ta-Nehisi Coates of his new book, “The Water Dancer”, we have decided to do more than just donate the books to people who are incarcerated, but start a book club and have a more organized approach to our Literacy program. 

Having dialogue via email or phone about the books we are reading, gaging overall thoughts on what we’ve read, only broadens the horizons of all participants regardless of our circumstances. In addition, if the author is still among the living, write her/him a letter with our collective thoughts and if they have transitioned, write the letter, still, in the memorandum.

*All books are pre-approved through the department of corrections.

With Intent to Prevent” Keeping Youth Youth Measure 

There are so much conversation and energy that goes into an intervention that society doesn’t focus on how much of it can actually be prevented. And although there are times when intervention is absolutely necessary, and there is no other alternative but to intervene, so much of what young people get themselves into can be just as easily prevented. As parents, educators, activists, community members, we recognize, remember, and understand the importance of the tribe, We know that without us there is no them. A simple hello goes a long way with a child so imagine how far a conversation can go or showing interest in what they’re interested in, even if you disagree. A healthy debate makes for an inquisitive mind and someone who is self-determined to learn more and teach even more. Servant Leaders. We have been able to do this in spaces as small as one on one and as large as 25 to 1. There is no such thing as too little or too many when referring to young people in general and Black children specifically because they are the ones whose lives are at stake. 

The state of Louisiana locks up children as young as ten years old. In New Orleans, most of those children are Black males and most of those arrested are school-based. As a liaison, we assist schools, parents, and more importantly, the child, who is the one that is supposed to be met with compassion first and counseling as an alternative, not prison. 

What we do matters because children matter most to us. Those same little people will be responsible for our way of life sooner than we think. Right now we have the opportunity to be on the side of humanity and guide them because we love them.