Black in America Discussion Guide

On July 21, 2008 by D. Bell

The Black Woman & Family: Soledad O’Brien explores the varied experiences of black women and families and investigates the reasons behind the disturbing statistics on single parenthood, disparities between black and white students in schools, and the devastating toll of HIV/AIDS. Premieres July 23, 2008 at 9 pm EST.

The Black Man: Soledad O’Brien evaluates the state of black men in America and explores the controversial topics of black men and fatherhood; disparities between blacks and whites in educational, career and financial achievement; and factors leading to the dramatic rates of black male incarceration. Premieres July 24, 2008 at 9 pm EST.
CNN has created discussion guides for use with parents, youth and the community before and after viewing to facilitate discussion on these topics. Some questions before viewing are:

What is your impression of black culture in American society?
What accomplishments have blacks made in America since Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination?
What challenges do you think exist for black men and women in American society today?
Has Barack Obama’s candidacy impacted your view of black men and women in America? Explain.
Do you think that your family’s history has affected your life? If so, how?


View discussion guides here.

2 Responses to “Black in America Discussion Guide”

  • I actually didn’t watch this but I did “try” to watch the one on C-Span with all the black women panelist. I wasn’t going to say anything but I couldn’t watch the whole thing because they were just saying the same thing that has already been said repeatedly in other similar panels. I’ve had just about enough as well. And yes, it is really obvious when people have their own agendas — interesting how it is always the same ole’ “black intellectuals” sitting there. All of the fresh, young minds (college students, bloggers, entrepreneurs) don’t seem to make the cut. The one of BET hosted by Jeff Johnson and MC Lyte was pretty interesting though.

  • I watched this yesterday and was not impressed. I’m tired of fucking panels of celbs. and people with side agendas trying to make a buck.

    Less panels and more action.