
Person of The Week
Henry Louis Gates, Jr. • Presenting The Past
Mar 28, 2024
Renowned historian Henry Louis Gates, Jr. reflects on his upbringing during school desegregation, the power of genealogy, and the shifting landscape of racial discourse. He discusses his latest book, 'The Black Box: Writing The Race,' examining the impact of affirmative action and the backlash to America's first Black presidency on African American studies. Tune in for insights on race, history, and cultural identity.
34:50
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Quick takeaways
- Genealogy can deepen understanding of American heritage and individual identity.
- Affirmative action plays a critical role in diversifying elite spaces for marginalized groups.
Deep dives
Influential Black Scholar and Filmmaker Henry Louis Gates Jr. on Racial Identity and Education
Henry Louis Gates Jr., prominent Black scholar and director at Harvard University, recounts his formative years in Piedmont, West Virginia during the era of school desegregation. He shares how his respectful upbringing and family's status in the community positively impacted his experience in an integrated school environment. Gates reflects on pivotal civil rights moments, such as the Little Rock integration and JFK's presidency, shaping his awareness of racial equality from a young age.
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