Books for Belonging 📚

I am so proud to be the new Director of Programs & Partners at AmazeWorks to bring belonging to life for children and adults of all identities and lived experiences! One way AmazeWorks champions equity and belonging for all is through our anti-bias Elementary Curriculum, which uses picture books to guide regular, intentional conversations about identity, difference, and bias with children.

Growing up, I wish I'd had mirrors of my own identity reflected and windows into those different from mine. As an Asian American in the suburbs of Chicago, I was consistently othered. I still can recall the calls of 'ching chong' and slanty eyed taunts from certain classmates. I remember not seeing many faces that looked like mine at school, in the media, and all around. Having students of all identities experience belonging is a big reason why I do the work that I do! 

This year, AmazeWorks is hoping to raise $15,000 to bring #BooksForBelonging into the classrooms of students across Minnesota and the US. As censorship against identity-affirming books persists nationwide, keeping AmazeWorks in classrooms feels even more important. Help me bring belonging to life with AmazeWorks today by donating to our campaign! 

Thank you for your support,
Andrew Zhao ❤