The comments presented in this book are based on lectures Dr. J. Luke Wood, Ph.D. gave during the Black Minds Matter course and during speeches that were associated with the class. The goal of this book is to convey social science research in a manner that is accessible to the people it is designed to reach. While this book is designed for educators of Black boys and men, the accessible tone is designed to ensure that the messages expressed are useful for non-educators - namely parents, community members, and advocates for Black males.

The data presented in this book is derived from a review of extant research as well as Dr. Wood's own research findings. In particular, highlighted findings
are from three guidebooks that are currently being used in the field. These guidebooks include: Supporting Men of Color in the Community College (Wood & Harris III, 2017), Teaching Men of Color in the Community College (Wood, Harris III, & White, 2015), and Teaching Boys and Young Men of Color (Wood & Harris III, 2017).

Counter-narratives were contributed by 51 parents illuminating often untold stories. Dr. Wood offered his own narratives after each chapter, sharing experiences that directly relate to the chapter themes and content. Other people's narratives include people from marginalized groups sharing their lived experiences and some are from narratives contributed by parents to the Our Voices Project.