The future belongs to those who prepare for it today...…”
- Dr. Richard L. Biffle, III
- Feb 25, 2018
- 2 min read
The title of this entry begins with a quote from Malcolm X, and held special meaning during conversations I had with many students. The first Black History month film presentation at HTHSCV, “I Am Not Your Negro – the Words of James Baldwin,” was a resounding success. The VIP Club (Voices in Politics) tackled a challenging topic/film documentary with class, poise, eloquence, and articulation.
The club was congratulated by fellow students, teachers and staff in organizing a positive, informative and engaging event that included a variety of discussion questions during the film, divided into 2 viewings (9/10th grade and 11th/12th grade) in the HTHSCV “Commons Room.” Of special note was the behavior and responses of the student audience at both film sessions – by and large very attentive, supportive and enjoying the experience as per several conversations I had as they exited the room.
Other activities and discussions related to HTHSCV Black History Month were also conducted in numerous classes with some of the following topics:
Comparing and contrasting the oral/musical stories told by Hip Hop communities and the “Narco-Corridos” of the musical culture, roots and traditions dealing with the drug cartels and trade in Mexico.
Review and discussion of the film documentary “13th” examining issues and challenges related to the 13th Amendment: the “era of mass incarceration”; crime “policy bills” proposed and passed that were part of various Presidential administrations; and political lobbying groups responsible for influencing privatization of prisons, sentencing guidelines, and how these are influencing immigration policy, and immigrant detention.
Post-film discussion about “I Am Not Your Negro” analyzing Baldwin’s focusing on societal “fears” (related to the racial divide – past and present), classism and elitism, and comparisons between policy makers of the past (1950’s-60’s) and current policies and practices in 2018.
A course discussion and analysis on “Ebonics” (African American Venacular Language) reviewing film segment “I Misremember the 90’s” and James Baldwin’s article entitled, “If Black English Isn’t A Language, Then Tell Me, What Is? (July, 1979). Also reviewed and analyzed the Oakland California Public School Resolution (1996) that adopted “Black Language” as an official language in the school system.
It was inspiring to hear the voices of many students responding to and asking questions throughout the month. These experiences and activities provided opportunities to express thoughts and ideas in an inclusive environment where all opinions and viewpoints were listened to in a respectful and dignified manner. I was honored to be asked on several occasions to participate in these activities and conversations, and to share my own experiences and views about these and many other topics.
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