Primary texts are predominantly authored by dead white males, but your students should not be deprived of the insights they offer. Furthermore, outmoded concepts, values, and knowledge can be discussed, analyzed, and placed in a more enlightened perspective. A course can be built around a single primary text, or selections can be assigned to cover various fundamental topics in your discipline.
Assignments can be primary readings, or supplement a standard text.
These include discipline-specific technical works as well as established literature of universal interest. As you teach from your reading list, you will develop preferences, discover shortcomings of certain readings, and find better readings for specific course goals. Student feedback is extremely valuable in assessing whether to retain specific assigned readings. Readings can support written assignments, and material should be included in course examinations.