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

Director: Stanley Nelson, Marco Williams
Screenwriters: Stanley Nelson, Marcia Smith

Institute History

  • 2017 Sundance Film Festival

Description

Veteran documentarian Stanley Nelson (Freedom Riders, 2010; The Black Panthers, 2015) returns to the Festival to deliver yet another essential chapter of American history with his latest film, Tell Them We Are Rising, the first-ever project of its kind on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

African Americans who would not be denied a higher education played an enormous part in propelling the epic journey toward liberation for Black people in the United States. Though much of their history was eclipsed by the explosiveness of the 1960s, HBCUs played a central role in the shaping of Black life, creating a Black middle class and dismantling segregation. Through this rich tapestry of archival photos, letters, diaries, home movies, a variety of never before seen or heard media, and memorable testimonials with key students, staff, faculty, and alumni, Nelson brings into sharp focus the pivotal role the 150-year history of HBCUs has played in American history, culture, and national identity.


— Shari Frilot

Screening Details

Credits

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