Making Black America Through The Grapevine is the latest offering from historian, documentarian, and scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr. The four-part series will premier in Atlanta on WABE on Tuesday, October 4th at 9PM. Check your local listings for the PBS broadcast in your area.
Gates speaks about our community living through the institutional oppression of Jim Crow laws and still finding joy. Clark Atlanta University scholar W. E. B. DuBois spoke about the “double consciousness” required to be Black in America. Even with unbelievable challenges, our people were able to find joy. This documentary is a celebration of that joy that most often occurred away from the “white gaze” of society.
The series includes the voices of everyday people who share stories about constructing culture. This culture built HBCUs, Jazz, Literature, and more. Networks across the country allowed businesses to flourish. First-hand accounts from the people who witness the birth and growth of communities with businesses, schools, and even medical facilities are all included in this sweeping history.
Kiplyn Primus, host of The Local Take on Jazz 91.9 WCLK, will host a watch party Tuesday, October 4th at 9pm when the first episode premieres on WABE. Follow along on Twitter with @Kiplyn and @Jazz919WCLKatl and with hashtags #PBAMBAWCLK #PBSMakingBlackAmerica