Black History Month Documentary Series
Beginning Tuesday, February 1 and continuing every Tuesday during the month of February, Ohio State's African American and African Studies (AAAS) Community Extension Center will present a documentary designed to examine African American history and engage the community in dialogue about an issue that impacts past, present and future generations.
Screenings take place on Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m. at AAAS, 905 Mt. Vernon Avenue. Film screenings are free and open to the public.
Documentary schedule:
A passion for Justice: Ida B. Wells Barnett
February 1
Discussion Leader: Dr. Linda James Myers, associate professor, Department of African American and African Studies
Ida B. Wells Barnett was a fearless anti-lynching crusader, suffragist, women’s rights advocate, journalist, and speaker. She stands as one of the nation’s most uncompromising leaders and most ardent defenders of democracy.
The Tallest Tree in Our Forest: Paul Robeson
February 8
Discussion Leader: The Honorable Ray Miller, president, Center for Urban Progress
Paul Robeson attended Rutgers University (he was the third black student in that school’s history) in New Jersey, where he was an All-American football player and excelled in other sports as well. When he graduated, he was valedictorian of his class. He enrolled in Princeton Law School and became a lawyer, but due to the racism of that time, he had trouble finding employment.
It was his inability to move forward as a lawyer which compelled Robeson to change his life’s course. Thus, he began the acting and singing career by which so many people came to love and admire him.
A Troublesome Property: Nat Turner
February 15
Discussion Leader: Minister Donell Muhammad, Mosque No. 43
Nathaniel Turner organized and led the most successful slave revolt in the United States. Turner was born a slave on October 2, 1800 in Virginia. As a child, he exhibited notable leadership qualities and intelligence. His insight prompted friends to believe he was destined to be a prophet.
African National Congress (ANC) Founder: John Dube
February 22
Discussion Leader: Dr. Lupenga Mphande, associate professor, Department of African American and African Studies
John Langalibalele Dube (1871-1946) was a South African essayist, philosopher, educator, politician, and novelist. He was the founding president of the South African Native National Congress (SANNC) which became the African National Congress in 1923. In his politics Dube was cautions and conservative, yet he was forthright on the rights of blacks and the paramount tenet of unity – he foresaw the necessity of the unity of black people long before Marcus Garvey came to the international scene.
For more information, contact AAAS at (614) 292-3922 or visit the website www.aaas.osu.edu