Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Watch Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

  • NR
  • 2017
  • 1 hr 22 min

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities is a documentary film that explores the history, impact, and relevance of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States. This film is directed by Stanley Nelson Jr. and produced by Firelight Films, known for their award-winning documentaries such as Freedom Riders and The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution.

The film delves into the origins of HBCUs, which were established in the 19th and early 20th centuries to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans who were denied access to traditional colleges and universities due to racial discrimination. It chronicles the challenges HBCUs faced in the decades after their founding, including meager funding, inadequate facilities, and racial violence, and how they overcame those challenges to become pillars of the black community.

Tell Them We Are Rising also highlights the key role HBCUs played in the civil rights movement, as they became important centers of activism, organizing, and leadership training for African American students. The documentary features interviews with prominent figures such as civil rights leader Julian Bond, activist Angela Davis, and filmmaker Spike Lee, who discuss the significance of HBCUs in their own lives and in the larger struggle for equality.

The film also explores the cultural and artistic contributions of HBCUs, including the rich legacy of black Greek-letter organizations, marching bands, and other traditions that continue to shape African American culture today. It showcases the accomplishments of HBCU graduates in a wide range of fields, from politics and business to sports and entertainment, illustrating their enduring impact on American society.

Throughout the documentary, archival material and personal testimonials from current and former HBCU students and faculty bring to life the stories of these vital institutions and their vital role in shaping the course of American history. The film also takes a critical look at the challenges faced by HBCUs today, including declining enrollment and funding cuts, and explores the ways in which these institutions are adapting and innovating to meet those challenges.

In conclusion, Tell Them We Are Rising is an important and engaging film that shines a much-needed light on the often-overlooked history and legacy of historically black colleges and universities in the United States. It serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity, and impact of these institutions, and of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America.

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes.

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Description

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities is a documentary film that explores the history, impact, and relevance of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States. This film is directed by Stanley Nelson Jr. and produced by Firelight Films, known for their award-winning documentaries such as Freedom Riders and The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution.

The film delves into the origins of HBCUs, which were established in the 19th and early 20th centuries to provide higher education opportunities for African Americans who were denied access to traditional colleges and universities due to racial discrimination. It chronicles the challenges HBCUs faced in the decades after their founding, including meager funding, inadequate facilities, and racial violence, and how they overcame those challenges to become pillars of the black community.

Tell Them We Are Rising also highlights the key role HBCUs played in the civil rights movement, as they became important centers of activism, organizing, and leadership training for African American students. The documentary features interviews with prominent figures such as civil rights leader Julian Bond, activist Angela Davis, and filmmaker Spike Lee, who discuss the significance of HBCUs in their own lives and in the larger struggle for equality.

The film also explores the cultural and artistic contributions of HBCUs, including the rich legacy of black Greek-letter organizations, marching bands, and other traditions that continue to shape African American culture today. It showcases the accomplishments of HBCU graduates in a wide range of fields, from politics and business to sports and entertainment, illustrating their enduring impact on American society.

Throughout the documentary, archival material and personal testimonials from current and former HBCU students and faculty bring to life the stories of these vital institutions and their vital role in shaping the course of American history. The film also takes a critical look at the challenges faced by HBCUs today, including declining enrollment and funding cuts, and explores the ways in which these institutions are adapting and innovating to meet those challenges.

In conclusion, Tell Them We Are Rising is an important and engaging film that shines a much-needed light on the often-overlooked history and legacy of historically black colleges and universities in the United States. It serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity, and impact of these institutions, and of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America.

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes.

Where to Watch Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play and YouTube VOD. Some platforms allow you to rent Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2017
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 22 min
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