by Dr. Oliver T. Reid

What is Literary Equity?

I created the concept of literary equity to describe the responsibility and power of documenting our stories. On one hand, it is about representation in publishing. On the other, it is about ensuring that people of color write stories filled with knowledge, culture, and truth.

Books hold wealth that money cannot replace. Think about the Bible, the bestselling book in the world. Generations rely on its words even though we cannot interview the original authors. That is the equity of writing: knowledge preserved beyond lifetimes. I often say, even God had a book. What is our excuse?

Literary equity means passing down recipes, strategies, lessons, and stories so future generations have roadmaps. It means leaving more than wealth; it means leaving wisdom. Stories become inheritance. Without them, the next generation risks starting over without guidance.

The M.I.L.K. Writing System

To help people move from ideas to reality, I developed the Milk Writing System. The word “milk” represents four steps:

• M – Messaging: Every book or story begins with a clear message.
• I – Implementation: Action brings that message to life.
• L – Linking: Connect your story to your life so it resonates with others.
• K – Knowledge: Ensure readers walk away with wisdom.

This system was born out of my own struggles. It took me ten years to complete my first book because I lacked a process. Since then, I have written more than fifty books, each shaped by these principles.

Books should provide solutions. Readers should walk away with clarity and tools. That is the goal of the Milk Writing System: to turn stories into lasting impact.

Living Full, Leaving Empty

My greatest fear is leaving this world full of untold stories. True success is leaving empty, having poured out everything you were meant to give. This does not mean chasing fame or wealth—it means building legacy, investing in family, and sharing wisdom.

Pride without humility leads to destruction, while humility without courage leads to silence. Balance gives us the strength to serve and the courage to lead.

Every day is another chance to tell your story, to pass on wisdom, and to contribute to literary equity. The stories you share today become the foundations others will stand on tomorrow.

Share Your Story Today

To every educator, leader, or parent: your story has value. You don’t need titles or letters behind your name to make it matter. What you need is the courage to share it. Your words may be the key that unlocks someone else’s future.