Why Belonging?

"Belonging Beyond Brown" is an insightful and powerful documentary that delves into the complexities of desegregation following the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court ruling. This film provides an in-depth look at the experiences of Black communities before and after this landmark decision. Through compelling narratives and historical analysis, "Belonging Beyond Brown" reveals the profound effects of desegregation on Black educators and students, shedding light on their resistance, resilience and ongoing fight for equity and justice in the American education system.

Key Themes

• Pre-Brown v. Board of Education - The thriving sense of community and belonging in segregated Black schools.
• Post-Brown v. Board of Education - The impact of desegregation on Black educators, students, and their communities.
• Educational Disparities – The ruling’s effect on the Black educator workforce, curriculum, and academic achievement of Black students.
• Displacement of Black Educators – How desegregation led to the loss of work and displacement of over 100,000 Black teachers and principals.
• Health and Well-Being – The correlation between racism and inequity in education and the long-term health outcomes of African Americans.
• HBCUs – How Historically Black Colleges and Universities foster achievement, belonging, and community; producing graduates who have profoundly impacted the education sector, medical field, politics, science, government, law, and the arts.
• The Urgency of Now – A call to action to engage, activate and support the next generation of educators who are being prepared to resist racism, revive the profession, and revolutionize the sector.

Featuring

Expert Insights - Interviews with historians, educators, and social scientists.

Personal Narratives - Powerful stories from Black educators and students.

Archival Footage - Clips that provide historical context and depth to the narrative.