The Antiracist Business Book

Game changer for entrepreneurs wanting to prioritize people over profit

“I hope you were drawn to this book because you’re looking for another way to lead, or maybe you’re looking for language to express feelings that you’ve had but haven’t been able to put into words.” - from the conclusion

This one sentence perfectly describes my feelings about this book. As I am starting my business, I feel isolated in the ways so many people talk about profit or connection or power as the outcomes or successes of being an entrepreneur. I cringe as people suggest ideas or host workshops around doing less work and making more money by outsourcing and/or scaling to improve profit margins.

While it focuses on anti-racism, it is much larger than just making your business less racist; it’s a good overview on broader anti-oppressive business and ideas for a path towards an economy based in just commerce.

This book made me feel confident and comfortable, reassuring me that I am far from alone in my desire to prioritize people and community in my business. It gave practical advice about searching for a balance that allows people to both have a livable income and make a positive impact on the world around me, as well as theoretical ideas about the world we can be working towards. Highlighted so many passages to consider how to incorporate into my operating agreement and my future planning & strategy.

On a practical level, the book is very well written and easy to read; it’s conversational tone was enjoyable and lent itself to reading quickly.

Highly recommend for anyone who feels that the business books they are reading or advice they are getting is too focused on profit and not focused enough on people.