The books and the online, moderated discussion will focus on deepening participants’ understanding of racism and the ways it impacts individuals and society, a news release said. The read and the virtual discussion are open to all and are sponsored by the Georgetown Public Library and Lark & Owl Booksellers.
Participants can select from three bestselling books: “How to Be An Antiracist” by Ibram X. Kendi (for adults), “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas (for teens), and “New Kid” by Jerry Kraft (for children grades 5-8). All three books are available in print, audiobook, e-book, and e-audio from the Georgetown Public Library and in print and audiobook editions from Lark & Owl Booksellers, the release said.
Individuals can sign up here for the Aug. 31 virtual panel discussion, which will focus on each of the three books and on antiracism in general, with a chance to ask questions or share comments.
The panel discussion will be facilitated by Tiffanie Harrison, an equity leader and marketing educator in Round Rock ISD who was Round Rock High School Teacher of the Year in 2015 and 2019. Harrison has an MBA and a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University, and she is a Beyond Diversity Affiliate Practitioner and Facilitator as well as an active leader in community organizations, such as Undoing Racism Round Rock, Engage Round Rock and the Round Rock Black Parents Association, according to the release.
Of the upcoming virtual panel discussion, Harrison said in the release, "I am honored to be included in this incredibly important work. Georgetown and surrounding communities have the opportunity to show that we have not only the ability, but also the shared duty to honor the humanity of people of all races. At this juncture, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be actively anti-racist. This conversation is a great start to the work that lies ahead of us."
Panel members who will participate in each discussion will be announced prior to the event.
Schedule for panel discussion Aug. 31:
- 7 p.m. Welcome
- 7:10 p.m. Discussion of “New Kid” by Jerry Kraft
- 7:45 p.m. Discussion of “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
- 8:30 p.m. Discussion of “How to Be an Antiracist” by Ibram X. Kendi
