In honor of Black History Month, Twin Cities PBS (TPT) is offering programming that celebrates the history, arts, cultures, lives, and experiences of Black communities. TPT is committed to telling the stories of how Black individuals, organizations, and movements shaped and continue to shape America.
From exciting YouTube series to full-length programs, we invite you to explore the variety of content we have celebrating Black stories. For even more options, make sure to check out TPT’s Black History collection.
Hope in the Struggle: The Josie Johnson Story
A reflection on the life of freedom fighter and civic leader Dr. Josie Johnson, who fought for fair housing, education, and civil rights. Hear in her own words how her experiences turned her to activism, what action looks like, and how the next generation is taking up the mantle. The struggle for justice and equality continues, but there is hope in the struggle.
Great Migrations: A People On The Move
Great Migrations explores how a series of Black migrations have shaped the U.S. From waves of Black Americans to the North – and back South – to immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean, movement is a defining feature of the Black experience.
American Masters: The Disappearance Of Miss Scott
Learn about jazz virtuoso and screen superstar Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own television show. An early civil rights pioneer, she faced down the Red Scare at the risk of losing her career and was a champion for equality. The film features interviews with Mickey Guyton, Tracie Thoms, Amanda Seales, and Sheryl Lee Ralph as the voice of Hazel Scott.
GOSPEL
GOSPEL, the latest history series from Henry Louis Gates, Jr., digs deep into the origin story of Black spirituality through sermon and song.
Jim Crow of the North Stories
“Jim Crow of the North Stories” uncovers the dark history of systemic racism in Minnesota, but also lifts up Black resistance and resilience in the past and the present-day changemakers bringing it to light and looking to right historical housing injustices. The four-part series of short documentaries is hosted by local historian Acoma Gaither.
North Star Civil War Stories
Four stories bring to light the hidden histories of African-American Minnesotans during and after the Civil War. These unsung heroes made unique contributions to the Union and their new state, but the details and records of their involvement still challenge historians.
American Masters: Roberta Flack
“American Masters: Roberta Flack” follows the music icon from a piano lounge through her rise to stardom. From “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” to “Killing Me Softly,” Flack’s virtuosity was inseparable from her commitment to civil rights. Detailing her story in her own words, the film features exclusive access to Flack’s archives and interviews with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Peabo Bryson and more.
This Free North
Celebrating the University of Minnesota’s 50th Anniversary of the African American Studies program, “This Free North” reflects on the people and events that led to its formation as well as its connection to, and influence on, contemporary students. In the act of looking back, this documentary reminds the viewer that history is complicated, divisive, ongoing.
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