Ep 5. Fault Lines

In American Soul season 1 episode 5 titled "Fault Lines," tensions rise as a result of political unrest and racial inequality in America in the late 1960s. The episode follows the storylines of several characters who are struggling to find their place in a world that seems to be falling apart around them.

The episode begins with Don Cornelius (played by Sinqua Walls), the creator of "Soul Train," grappling with his decision to take a political stance on his show. In the wake of Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination, Cornelius feels compelled to use his platform to speak out against racism and injustice. However, he is met with resistance from both his producer and some of his viewers who believe that "Soul Train" should remain apolitical.

Meanwhile, Tammy (played by Ariana Neal), an aspiring singer and dancer, is struggling to navigate the complicated racial dynamics of the entertainment industry. She is faced with a difficult decision when she is offered a job that requires her to perform in blackface, a practice that she finds offensive and demeaning. Tammy's story is emblematic of the larger cultural fault lines that are exposed in the episode, as black artists are forced to grapple with the reality that their success is often contingent upon their willingness to conform to white cultural norms.

The episode also explores the dynamics of a romantic relationship between Gerald (played by Jason Dirden), a civil rights activist, and his girlfriend, Ruby (played by Shannon Kane). In the wake of King's assassination, Gerald finds himself becoming increasingly radicalized, pushing him further and further away from Ruby, who struggles to understand his commitment to the cause.

As the political unrest in America reaches a boiling point, tensions come to a head in a climactic scene that depicts the aftermath of the riots that erupted in the wake of King's death. The episode ends on a somber note, as the characters are left to grapple with the reality that despite their shared cultural heritage, they are living in a deeply divided and unequal society.

Overall, "Fault Lines" is a thought-provoking and emotional episode that explores the ways in which systemic racism and political unrest intersect with the personal experiences of its characters. While the show is set in the late 1960s, its themes and messaging are still highly relevant to contemporary audiences, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the ongoing struggles for social justice and equality.