| "At The Table: Young People Talk About Diversity" |
This presentation tells the story of our nation's struggle to ensure liberty and justice for all. Participants will view Southern Poverty Law Center's award-winning film "A Place at the Table: American Dreams", in which young people describe how their families have found a place in the "American table." One major element sets the film apart from most historical documentaries: It is narrated entirely by young people. The presentation will also feature interactive group activities and discussion. The book component explores this history in greater depth when the single presentation is expandable up to a thirteen lesson reoccurring workshop. The documentary spans three centuries to show how individuals and groups have toppled barriers in education, transportation, voting, employment, housing and other areas to become full participants in our democracy. To help student participants recognize and identify with ongoing efforts to win equality, the documentary film features teenagers like themselves. High school students of varying backgrounds -- recent immigrants, third- and fourth-generation Americans, individuals whose families have been on this continent for thousands of years and those whose ancestors came here in chains -- tell how their families and they themselves have struggled for and found "a place at the table." This workshop's objectives are as follows: 1. To educate participants on the nature and consequences of hatred throughout our history and in contemporary society. 2. To encourage participants to explore our nation�s history and society with an awareness of one�s own personal history and an understanding as to how this contributes to our nation�s rich past. Additionally, participants should see how intolerance and discrimination has played a role in our history. 3. To initiate constructive dialogue among participants about how they may live their lives as part of the problem or part of the solution to hatred and violence in our society. 4. To challenge participants to act against hate and intolerance and to remain aware of the diversities around them in order that the full spectrum of human potential can be utilized. These young people's stories are not far off and hard to understand, but instead very real and applicable to our own lives. Complimented by the interactive activities that make a Beginning the Journey Presentation so memorable, participants will begin to understand the consequences of discrimination and be challenged by these young people's fight for equality. Out of all the pain caused by hatred and injustice in our nation's history, there has emerged another, more hopeful narrative. It is a narrative composed by men and women who refused to allow their own humanity to be diminished by others. Through struggle, sacrifice, and solidarity they have taken their rightful place at the American table. We can learn a great deal from their stories. "At the Table" is appropriate for middle and high school students (recommended 8th grade and above), educators, administrators, and general audiences. Further Information: If you would like further information about Southern Poverty Law Center's material contact us or visit their website using the "SPLC" link below. All Beginning the Journey Presentations and Workshops can be set up as a one time presentation, a multiple day workshop, or continuing program within your school, workplace, church or other civic organization. Feel free to inquire about this material when contacting Beginning the Journey. |
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