Over the course of the pandemic we have seen numerous movements to address the deep social inequity that exists in our societies, and we have had ample opportunities to learn and increase our knowledge of anti-oppressive practices. One of our favourite ways to learn and to expand our understanding and empathy for the world, is in the community discussing great works of art. And so, what could be a better way to continue this learning than with a Book Club where we can learn alongside our neighbours?

The Anti-O Book Club will endeavour to be a space where people can share ideas, ask important questions, and share their love of literature and social justice in an inclusive and respectful environment. Led by the talented Lalaa Comrie of This Black Girl Reads, we are ecstatic to present a bi-monthly Book Club to help us expand our practice and understanding of anti-oppression.

This book takes the reader through Habib’s personal childhood journey, from her story of migration to the messy relationship with her parents, forced marriage, finding her sexuality while holding on to her faith. Habib went through the painful process of learning, unlearning, relearning, and then shared that experience with us. The book is a narrative that is otherwise at its best manipulated, controlled and diluted, and at its worst nonexistent.