SUMMARY

The fact that our country is divided isn’t new. In many respects, it can be traced back to the founding of a nation on the promise of freedom while dependent on slavery, a time when many couldn’t participate in the democracy being created. In a conversation with retired naval Commander Theodore Johnson, Judy Woodruff examines how that founding contradiction has evolved and what it means for our challenges today.

You can view this transcript of the story.

NewsHour Classroom has a collection of lessons based on Woodruff's series, America at a Crossroads, including a more in-depth lesson plan based on this video.

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM UP QUESTIONS

1. Who is Cmdr. Theodore R. Johnson (RET.)?
2. What are the main historical events and policies mentioned in the story that have contributed to racism in America?
3. When is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence?
4. What was a turning point for Johnson in the push for racial equality?
5. How did seeing the picture of his great grandfather, Daddy Joe, affect Johnson?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

1. What are examples of progress towards racial equality included in this story? What additional policies do you think need to be taken towards greater racial equality?
2. How do historical factors raised in the story continue to impact American society today?

Media literacy: Understanding the history of racism helps us make sense of current societal divisions and challenges. What additional points of historical context would you add to this piece?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?

FOR MORE

What students can do:

Watch this Student Reporting Labs video, Racial stereotypes: What people get wrong about me #NoLabels, and answer the following question: How can students prevent racism in their community?

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