Our journey through African American history will begin in 1750, with the birth of Kunta Kinte in West Africa. Alex Haley spent 12 years researching and writing his masterpiece "Roots", a novelization of his actual ancestors and their stories that were passed down through his family, from 1750-1950.

 

From there, we will continue to be your guides as we explore more poetry, literature, music and theater of Black Americans throughout history together, with the goal of engaging and inspiring your youth.

 

The wonderful thing about these stories is—they are so much more than just literature, art, music and theater! History, geography, culture, science, math, politics, economics, psychology and the human spirit are inherent throughout. Explore the events and life experiences of American history from the voices of Black Americans. Compare and contrast them with other stories you're familiar with.

 

This is a "living" class because no two sessions are exactly alike. Each new group of scholars shapes the discussion in a different way. We are excited to hear what you've learned and what connections you've made in a one-hour class discussion with Levi, Angel and other youth once a week.