13th Discussion Questions
What can we learn from the documentary's portrayal of how “Birth of a Nation” shaped America's views on black people for years? What can this teach us about the power of media in present day?
What was your initial reaction upon learning just how strategic the history of racism is?
The documentary argues that slavery hasn’t ever really been abolished, we’ve just replaced slavery with different forms of racism and exploitation. Do you agree or disagree?
Let’s talk reparations. This film shows you the horrifying history of American slavery and racism and the current systemic oppression of black people. For centuries politicians and leaders have apologized for mistakes they made in the treatment of black people, but each systemic “reform” has seemingly just led to different versions of the same oppression. What do you think America owes the black community? What are solutions mentioned in the film and which do you agree with? (Banning companies from funding politicians campaigns, financial reparations for all black people, etc.)