Empowering Reads That Explore Human Rights

Make room on your bookshelves because today, we're celebrating and highlighting the powerful voices of four BIPOC women authors who've made compelling cases for human rights around the world. From gripping memoirs to moving anthologies, dive below into our curated selection of empowering works that are sure to earn a spot on your shelf. 

1

Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey 

Many of us know the grind of capitalism all too well. The sleepless nights and fast-paced work environments eventually catch up to us all. But have you ever considered rest an act of resistance or reclamation of your power? 

Maybe not, but this manifesto is your rallying cry and roadmap to freedom from the "oppressive grip of Grind Culture." Rooted in Black liberation, womanism, spirituality, somatics, and Afrofuturism, author Tricia Hersey challenges what we all know and offers us a new path to our innate human rights to rest.  

2

I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai

"I Am Malala" is a riveting illustration of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. Shot for speaking out for girls' education, Malala's miraculous recovery propels her into a symbol of peaceful resistance. 

This remarkable narrative delves into the heart of a family torn by terrorism, a father's unwavering support for his daughter's education, and the unwavering love that defies societal norms of her home country, Pakistan. Malala's story will leave you inspired to take action and fight for a brighter future. 

3

Lakota Woman by Mary Crow Dog

"Lakota Woman" offers a raw and moving narrative of Mary Crow Dog's journey from a desolate South Dakota reservation to the heart of the American Indian Movement. Her firsthand account sheds light on the struggles and resilience of the Lakota Sioux people, revealing the impact of U.S. policies on indigenous communities. 

For those interested in learning more about indigenous history, "Lakota Woman" offers a deeper understanding of human rights issues faced by Native Americans that surpass the basic history books. 

4

All We Can Save: Truth, Courage, and Solutions for the Climate Crisis edited by Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Dr. Katharine K. Wilkinson

If you're struggling with climate anxiety, All We Can Save is a groundbreaking collection of essays, poetry, and art that may offer solace amid the climate movement. Amplifying the voices of diverse women leading on climate issues, this anthology challenges traditional paradigms and provides a more inclusive and collaborative approach to addressing the climate crisis. Through compassion intertwined with science, this book is a guide for shaping a sustainable collective future for us all. 

5
6
7
8
9
10

Moving forward, challenge yourself to explore a human rights issue you haven't dived into before, and remember—there are countless ways to fight for human rights. Whether it's educating yourself or others, volunteering your time, or donating, let your voice be heard and make a change!