The Black Kids Matter Initiative was created to amplify, celebrate, and empower the voices of Black children and other children of color. Presented with National Grid, and supported by TD Bank, the initiative kicked off in seven states across the Eastern seaboard, where educators encouraged their students to express the many ways that Black and Brown kids are special. Those educators submitted a wonderful array of videos, drawings, writing, and poetry expressing the voices of the kids of color they serve. You can explore submissions on FirstBook.org.

Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop shared, “Children need windows and mirrors. They need mirrors in which they see themselves and windows through which they see the world.” In order to spark imagination, children need to see their lives reflected in the stories they read, but many children in low-income communities don’t have access to books. Through the generous support of our partners, First Book will distribute more than 17,000 culturally relevant books that showcase diverse characters, voices, and life experiences to children in need.

You can add the same titles to your library by shopping our Bookshop book list. 10% of your purchase will directly support First Book's efforts for educational equity.

Thank you to our partners, National Grid and TD Bank.