The brown book is about combating racism through storytelling. Muslims and South Asians tend to get media attention only when the fanatics of our communities do something or if there is violence," says coordinator Shakil Choudhury. "Because of the context of racism, these then become the the 'stories' which dog us throughout our lives. As minorities, we have to initiate more projects like the brown book which describe our lived realities and challenge the simplistic, stereotypical understanding of who we are. We have to tell our own stories because nobody else will.

The brown book was created with two main goals. The first is to combat racism through storytelling, and enhance our image of South Asian people and countries. And second, to provide role models who challenge stereotypes and inspire youth by showing how young people are engaged in critical work in their communities.

The brown book is meant to intrigue readers by presenting controversial and often differing views on such issues such as racism, sexism, and human rights. The brown book will also be used by teachers and students in the education system as well as by community groups.