Overview

Racing for the People is a light-hearted story about a serious time that captures the lives of Olympic runners and civil rights activists, Tommie Smith and John Carlos. They made history on October 16, 1968, by raising their fists for racial equality to a world audience. Risking their lives, reputations, and Olympic medals, they took a stand for justice. But their activism didn't start there. Smith and Carlos had humble beginnings and though their outstanding athleticism as youths led them to the track, their tenacity and passion for social justice moved them to run for far more than personal accolades. Smith and Carlos are part of a long history of Black activists. Though their names are not as widely publicized as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., and Rosa Parks, their message is just as strong, and their stance for justice for all continues to serve as inspiration to the Black activist athletes of today. Though mainly aimed at ages 6 to 12, Racing for the People, is relevant for all readers young and old, featuring strong Black figures who made a difference locally and globally. Readers will walk away inspired to stand for justice, just like the two Olympic heroes. It is an ideal book for school libraries, families, and children seeking to be anti-racist and advocate for social justice.

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9781649908070

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Christiana is a queer African American school counselor who is dedicated to her students, walking with them as they journey toward the best versions of themselves. Originally from Sacramento, California, her educational endeavors took her to San Jose State University where she earned her BS in journalism, and the University of Southern California where she earned her M.Ed in school counseling.Writing has always been a passion of Christiana's. As an undergraduate, she was inspired by the stories of Olympic runners Tommie Smith and John Carlos, who often visited her university and motivated students to be active in making change for their communities. She recognized their stories as an unsung piece of the civil rights movement that not enough children grow up hearing.One summer she volunteered to read at a reading enrichment program for African American youth, and wanted to read a story about these Olympic heroes for the children. But there were none, so she decided to write it herself. It is Christiana's desire is to add to the vast collection of civil rights non-fiction children's stories. Kimiyo, as a coach, counselor and artist, hopes to promote equity and justice to inspire all ages to pursue their dreams. She grew up in Dallas, TX, and pursued higher education at the University of Southern California receiving her BA in Theater and a M.Ed in school counseling. Kimiyo currently lives in Bellingham, WA with her husband and two dogs where she finds joy in dancing, acting and of course, drawing!

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