Bring the power of public radio to your classroom!

Image in the public domain

Story Length: 4:19

James Baldwin: Writings on Race, Class and Civil Rights

James Baldwin’s legacy and words are still very much alive and relevant today. A 2017 Oscar-nominated documentary was inspired by Baldwin’s writing on race, class, and the Civil Rights era in America. The documentary, called "I Am Not Your Negro," examines the lives and work of three Civil Rights leaders: Medgar Evers, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X. At the same time, it urges audiences to consider how racial tensions and attitudes continue to influence our culture today. Listen to hear more about how James Baldwin and this documentary challenge us to work toward positive change in our communities.

Story Length: 4:19

Listen to the Story:

SOURCE:

National Public Radio © 2017 National Public Radio, Inc. Used with the permission of NPR. All rights reserved.

02/03/2017


Listening Comprehension Questions

Why did the filmmaker, Raoul Peck, choose to make a documentary based on James Baldwin’s writing?

What were James Baldwin’s goals when he set out to write "Remember This House"?

How did Raoul Peck’s intentions change as he was making this documentary?

What are the connections between James Baldwin’s writing and the world today?

According to James Baldwin and the filmmaker, who should be responsible for creating positive change in our world? Why?


  • Listening Organizers

  • Baldwin and Documentary T-Chart
  • Language Identification Organizer