Moving and Informative Read! I Loved This!!!

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While I am not the target audience for this book, I think this book is a fantastic read for any and everyone to read. It has a copious amount of tips and hacks, especially for marketing and networking, in a manner that is especially pertinent for Black individuals or those who feel that they are unfairly discriminated against because of racism.

I found the book to be very enlightening as I learned about some struggles that I was not aware of. Growing up, I had friends and boyfriends who were Black and really didn't think much about skin color. Therefore, I really loved when the authors spoke about why "color blindness" can also be damaging. They presented it in a way that really spoke to me and helped me understand how it is important to acknowledge the difference because of the different heritage/traditions and recognizing unique challenges that they may face.

It was so helpful to hear of some experiences shared and why certain things can be hurtful and how we, as White individuals, can help make it a safer and more welcoming environment to those who have historically been discriminated against by many, and give better opportunities to others. I have to be honest. Many of the challenges they faced broke my heart. I hate that some of them were treated as less simply because of the color of their skin. The topic of racism and hearing these stories can be uncomfortable, yes, but it is so important. It doesn't matter that I am not the intended audience or that I have not had these experiences, learning what others have endured can help us develop empathy for others and understanding another's journey is essential to developing relationships with and connecting with others.

Another comment made in the book that really resonated with me is how the focus on Black lives and race related issues, does not take away from any others. It does not mean that White people are not discriminated against, just that it isn't typically based on their skin color. It is important to be aware of this discrimination and do our part, in whatever capacity, to help root it out.

The business advice was great and I found it very informative as well. Both authors are such wonderful and articulate individuals. I enjoyed every page of the book and couldn't wait to soak up more of it!

The final thing I loved about this book is how the authors really taught with kindness and love. Speaking to those who are also Black, they recommended having hard conversations with those who are White to help them understand their unique challenges and connecting on deeper levels. This is not their responsibility if it is too hard at that time to do, but can help create allies in this fight and improve relationships. People should never be, or have been, discriminated against based on skin color, at work or anywhere, period. However, there is some deep rooted racism and the authors point out how trying to connect and teach those who are willing to listen, can benefit this fight for fair treatment. I love this because I feel like reaching across the aisle and connecting will help people see and focus on similarities, not differences, and help achieve this goal so much quicker.

I hope this duo comes out with more books on similar topics and I would love to learn more from them!