Why do people risk the contagion of a virus and potential injury to stage peaceful protests? Surely, it is easier to sit in front of the TV and scream. Or just ignore what is happening around us. But in truth, there has never been major change without people taking a stand and making their voices heard.

This is graphically illustrated in this scene from the movie Gandhi.

Protesting injustice has a long tradition in the United States starting with the Boston Tea Party. As John Lewis is laid to rest today, we remember the Civil Rights Movement and the role protesters played.

And right now, people are standing up all over this country demanding justice and full citizenship for all, no matter the color of their skin.

Looking to learn more about taking a stand? Here are four Teach Peace Now recommended books to expand our children and students’ understanding.

On the Freedom Side: How Five Decades of Youth Activists Have Remixed American History by Wesley Hogan   

Each chapter of this book profiles young activists  and the work they do. High School & up

Say Her Name by Zetta Elliot 

This collection of poetry calls attention to police violence against black women and inspires the passionate pursuit of justice on their behalf.  Upper Elementary & up

Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation  by Duncan Tonatiuh

This is the story of how Sylvia Mendez, barred from attending the better funded school because of the color of her skin won school desegregation in California. Upper Elementary & up

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

This is the story of a nine-year girl full of confidence and a passion for justice who was the youngest person arrested in the 1963 Birmington protests. Elementary

Find more TPN Recommended books here.

Do you have a favorite book that inspires activism? Please share. Post your thoughts and comments below.