Margaret Washington, professor of history, is featured in the new PBS documentary film, "'Tell Them We Are Rising': The Story of Black Colleges and Universities," directed by MacArthur Award-winning filmmaker Stanley Nelson.
The film documents the story of black colleges and universities, which began before the Civil War, and Washington was called on for her expertise in 18th and 19th century African American social and cultural history.
“The film dramatically sheds light on African Americans' journey to literacy and education, as they sought to rise above the historical baggage of slavery, segregation and racism,” explains Washington. “Nelson’s documentary uncovers the often unacknowledged Black struggle for educational advancement and recognition. The intellectual, cultural and pedagogical value of these institutions represent a truly significant historical and contemporary page from American life.”
“Tell Them We Are Rising” is the second in a three-part series, “America Revisited,” that includes “The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution,” and the forthcoming, “The Slave Trade: Creating A New World.” The 90-minute film is scheduled to air nationally on the PBS series, “Independent Lens,” on Monday, February 19, at 9pm ET (Check local listings).
This story also appeared in the Cornell Chronicle.
