*Historically, many Black authors and artists have used the n-word, a word that is an inescapable part of our history and culture. This word has power, and that power can shift when heard in different contexts and uttered by different speakers. For the purposes of this read-in, we encourage you to avoid giving voice to that word. If it appears in the text you’ve chosen, please consider simply saying “N” or “n-word” in its place. That way, you can be true to the author’s writing without bringing unnecessary discomfort to the audience.