People Presenting Books Promoting Reading to End Racism, Eliminating Racism, YWCA Boulder County

Reading to End Racism (RER) is an inter-generational literacy program designed to engage first through fifth grade students with books and personal stories, and spark discussion about eliminating racism, bullying and discrimination.  

RER provides training, resources and support for volunteers, teachers and parents to talk with their children about racism and discrimination.

Parent Workshop “How to Talk to Your Kids About Racism”

To complement our Reading to End Racism Reading Days in local elementary schools, YWCA Boulder County offers a parent workshop to give parents the skills and tools they need to answer questions their children might ask about race, racism, discrimination and bullying after RER visits their school, and how they can continue the conversation at home.  Topics include:

  • How do we have meaningful conversations about race and racism?  

  • How do we raise our children to treat others fairly when they see racial injustice?  

  • What are the pros and cons of talking openly about race and racial injustice with our children?

  • What is the price of silence?   

RER in Action!

Reading to End Racism (RER) is a grassroots organization founded in 1998 by a group of retired local teachers.  They saw racism and discrimination in their classrooms and wanted to create a safer, more supportive educational environment for local students.  YWCA Boulder County became involved with the program in 2006, originally providing office space and eventually adopting the program in 2013 to help it continue and grow. 

What’s Happening!

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Recent RER Events

Ways to Get Involved

  • Volunteer

    Attend a Volunteer Training. We have trainings throughout the year on our event calendar.

  • Bring RER to You

    Interested in a RER Reading Day at your school or community group?

  • Sponsor

    You or your organization can sponsor a Reading to End Racism visit to a school or community group.

  • View Our Book List

    Download our curated book list: 10th Anniversary of Reading to End Racism at YWCA Boulder County.

RER Blog & News

  • “I think racism is wrong because we are all the same on the inside.”

    Student, Sanchez Elementary

  • “I will always be an ally.”

    Student, Flatirons Elementary 


  • “This is the best presentation of what racism is about and how to recognize it in one’s self and others.”  

    Teacher, Heatherwood Elementary

  • “I thought it was a great lesson and super-appropriate for first graders. Honoring culture and differences within our community is culturally responsive teaching!”

    Teacher, Whittier Elementary

  • “I learned that when you see someone alone, you should go make them feel better and make a new friend.”

    Student, Foothill Elementary School