Required Reading for Black History Month: Essential Books for Canadians to Read Now
Black History Month is a time for reflection, celebration, and action. It’s an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Black history, Black excellence, and the ongoing fight for racial equity—both globally and here in Canada. But true allyship doesn’t begin and end in February. It requires continuous learning, unlearning, and a commitment to amplifying Black voices.
At For Youth Initiative, we believe that when we educate ourselves, we become better equipped to support, uplift, and advocate for the next generation of Black leaders. So, in the spirit of learning, we’ve compiled a required reading list for Canadians—books that challenge perspectives, inspire action, and honour the lived experiences of our Black communities.
1. "Policing Black Lives" by Robyn Maynard
A must-read for understanding the systemic racism embedded in Canada’s history, this book examines how Black communities have been disproportionately affected by policing, incarceration, and state violence.
2. "The Skin We're In" by Desmond Cole
A powerful account of one year in the life of Black resistance in Canada, this book sheds light on racial injustice, activism, and the work still needed to dismantle systemic oppression.
3. "They Said This Would Be Fun" by Eternity Martis
A deeply personal and eye-opening memoir about being a Black woman navigating predominantly white spaces in Canadian universities. A must-read for understanding the lived realities of Black youth in education.
4. "Until We Are Free" edited by Rodney Diverlus, Sandy Hudson & Syrus Marcus Ware
This collection of essays by Black activists and thinkers in Canada explores the future of anti-racist activism, Black liberation, and social justice movements.
5. "Frying Plantain" by Zalika Reid-Benta
A beautifully written coming-of-age story set in Toronto’s Jamaican-Canadian community, this book explores themes of identity, belonging, and intergenerational expectations.
6. "Black Writers Matter" edited by Whitney French
An anthology that highlights the diverse voices of Black Canadian writers, offering deeply personal and political reflections on race, identity, and belonging.
7. "The Gospel of Breaking" by Jillian Christmas
A stunning poetry collection that celebrates Black identity, queerness, and resilience, offering a lyrical exploration of survival, joy, and revolution.
Beyond Reading: Taking Action for Black Youth
Reading these books is a great start, but real change happens when knowledge is put into action. Black youth in Canada continue to face barriers in education, employment, and systemic equity—but together, we can change that.
At For Youth Initiative, we create spaces where Black youth thrive—through mentorship, skills training, career-building programs, and leadership opportunities. Investing in Black youth means investing in a future where they are empowered to lead, innovate, and build stronger communities.
📢 This Black History Month, go beyond reading—take action. Support Black youth by making a donation today. Your contribution helps provide the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Because Black history isn’t just something we read about—it’s something we build together.
#BlackHistoryMonth #RequiredReading #EmpowerBlackYouth #FuelTheFuture