Discussion: Viral Justice: by How We Grow the World We Want by Ruha Benjamin

Hi everyone!

With everything happening in the world, many of us are asking ourselves: What can I actually do that will make a difference? That’s why we’re excited to announce our next book selection—Viral Justice: How We Grow the World We Want by Ruha Benjamin.

This book challenges the idea that only grand, systemic overhauls matter and instead makes the case that small, everyday actions can collectively lead to deep and lasting change. Viral Justice is part personal reflection, part social critique, and part call to action—helping us think about how we can each find our lane, do our work, and make an impact in our communities.

I’m also thrilled that Sharifa will be leading our discussion with me this time!

Book Description:
Ruha Benjamin, a Princeton professor and leading voice on race, technology, and justice, takes a deeply personal yet broadly relevant approach in Viral Justice. She argues that even as oppressive systems feel immovable, the key to justice is already in motion—growing through small but powerful acts of care, resistance, and creativity.
She weaves together history, research, and storytelling to show how small shifts—whether in education, healthcare, policy, or personal relationships—can be contagious, spreading change in ways that might not be immediately visible but ultimately shape the world around us.
Benjamin encourages us to rethink what justice means, not as a distant ideal, but as something we build in our everyday lives. This book is for anyone wondering how to move beyond outrage and into action.

Getting the Book:
Viral Justice is available at:

• Oakland Public Library: Available
• San Francisco Public Library: Available
• Marcus Books: Out of stock as of February 5 but expecting more copies soon

It’s also available at major online retailers and on audiobook (free with Spotify Premium)

Location: Near Grand and Webster in Oakland (details will be shared via email to RSVPs)