Description: Digital Corporation sponsors a demonstration of the evolution of voice technology at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. A moderator and a group of speakers answer questions from the audience about voice technology and computing technology. The speakers and audience discuss the importance of access to this technology by the blind and disabled. The moderator introduces musician Stevie Wonder. A short clip of Saturday Night Live is played, featuring Stevie Wonder as a news reporter. Wonder speaks to the audience about the opportunities provided to him through technology. He explains the transition from acoustic technology to a more visual technology in terms of music. Wonder discusses his experiences with technology and explains how he works with a Kurzweil reading machine, a DECtalk computer and a synthesizer to compose music. He explains how technology helps further opportunity. Wonder thanks the creators of this technology. Tape 1 of 2
0:59:59: Visual: A man stands at a podium, talking about the evolution of voice technology at a demonstration of the Kurzweil voice recognition machine at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. The man talks about the applications of voice technology in computer-assisted instruction. He talks about speech synthesis and speech recognition as two components of computer-assisted instruction devices. The man says that computer-assisted instruction devices can help young children learn. 1:01:36: V: The audience applauds. The moderator invites the audience to ask questions of the speakers. The speakers are gathered beside the podium, in front of a large banner for the Digital Corporation. The moderator talks about Digital's commitment to promoting and furthering technology in the interests of the company and the greater community. An audience member asks about the sales of the voice recognition machine. The moderator says that the product is successful; that sales figures are not the focus of this conference. 1:03:26: V: The man who spoke answers a question at the podium. The man talks about silicon technology. He says that the price of silicon chips will continue to decline. He says that his company has an active research and development team; that they are working hard to incorporate the latest technology into their products. The man predicts that the future will bring more powerful devices at lower costs; that companies in the field would like to provide computing devices which are affordable for individuals. Another man says that blind people can benefit from voice recognition machines which are available at their workplaces or through community organizations. He notes that blind people can access the machines in these ways, even if they cannot afford to buy one. The first man quotes a statistic indicating that two-thirds of all blind college students have access to a Kurzweil reading machine through their college campuses. The man notes that the Xerox Corporation donated reading machines to many college campuses. A third man approaches the podium. He says that many corporations are interested in donating machines to appropriate organizations; that corporations want to provide access to the machines. 1:05:33: V: The moderator tells the audience that there will be a question and answer period after the presentation of Stevie Wonder (pop singer). A fourth man talks about Wonder's Kurzweil music synthesizer. The man talks about Wonder's involvement with technology. The man talks about Wonder's accomplishments and his efforts to establish a holiday in honor of Martin Luther King (African American civil rights leader). The man talks about recent awards given to Wonder. 1:07:00: V: The audience applauds as Wonder enters the room. A man guides Wonder to the podium. Wonder introduces a video presentation, which begins to play. The video presentation shows Wonder doing a parody of a music critic on Saturday Night Live (late night TV show). 1:09:09: V: Wonder talks about the opportunities provided to him through technology. Wonder talks about the contributions made to the technology which allows him to communicate more fully. Wonder says that technology is his "little sister, big brother, mother and father. I get inspired by it." He talks about learning and developing along with technology. Wonder says that he was first introduced to technology through learning the Braille language; that the Braille language provided him with a fundamental understanding of technology; that he applies that lesson to the machines he encounters today. Wonder says that technology has become more visual; that blind people need to be able to read or hear visual displays on machines. Wonder thanks the technological community for allowing him to access to technology through voice recognition. Wonder says that he used a Teleprompter for the blind during his appearance on Saturday Night Live. Wonder talks about his portable Braille machine, which allows him to access information on a cassette tape. Wonder talks about the pleasure of reading a book through the Kurzweil reading machine. Wonder talks about the DECtalk machine. Wonder says that the DECtalk machine can read Braille input in English. Wonder talks about the usefulness of the DECtalk machine. Wonder says that he will show the audience how the DECtalk machine can read the visual output of a Kurzweil machine, which allows him to use synthesizers without relying on visuals. Wonder says that he is frustrated that these machines are not more accessible to the blind. Wonder says that this technology must be made available to the handicapped and non-handicapped alike; that demand for the product will lead to greater access. Wonder urges the technology community to apply its skill to create greater access for all people. Wonder thanks the creators of the technology and the audience. The audience applauds.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/29/1985
Description: Story opens with clips of civilians commenting on near possibility of war. Clip of Martin Luther King Jr. giving a sermon. Boston University Martin Luther King Professor of Ethics John Cartwright recalls Martin Luther King's legacy of non violence and pacifism. Cartwright explains the sad irony of imminent Persian Gulf war on King's birthday. Clip of King speaking about Vienam on April 15, 1967 at anti-Vietnam War march in New York City. Brief clip of King speaking at different rally. Ends with Cartwright talking about discussion of war through the context of King's work.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/15/1991
Description: Marcus Jones reports that Mamie Till-Mobley (civil rights activist) received a lifetime activism award from a Massachusetts senior citizen action group. Jones reports that Till-Mobley's son, Emmett, was brutally murdered in Mississippi in 1955. Jones notes that Till-Mobley's determination to bring the murderers to justice has been an inspiration to other African Americans. Jones notes that the Eyes On The Prize series has brought attention to Till-Mobley's role in the civil rights movement. Jones' report includes footage from Eyes on the Prize. Jones reports that James Farmer (civil rights activist) also received an award from the organization. Jones' report features footage of Farmer and Till-Mobley at a press conference after the awards ceremony. Jones interviews Till-Mobley, who discusses her role in the civil rights movement. Jones notes that Till-Mobley has organized the Emmett Till players, who travel with Mobley to spread the message of the civil rights movement. Jones' report includes footage of performances at the awards ceremony by Ericka Elcy and Patrice Richardson of the Emmett Till Players.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of Mamie Till-Mobley talking about the civil rights movement. Till-Mobley says that she wanted the world to see the horrible events taking place in the US. Marcus Jones reports that the brutal murder of Emmet Louis Till startled the nation in 1955; that Emmet Louis Till was from Chicago; that Emmet Louis Till was visiting relatives in Mississippi in 1955. Jones reports that Emmet Louis Till said "Bye, baby" to a white woman when exiting a grocery store; that Emmet Louis Till's body was found in the Tallahatchie River a few days later. V: Footage from Eyes On The Prize of Emmet Louis Till's funeral. Shots of a black and white photo of Emmet Louis Till; of Bryant's grocery store in Mississippi; of a river. Footage from Eyes on the Prize of Mamie Till-Mobley at a press conference. Shots of whites seated in an audience. Jones reports that Till-Mobley's determination to bring her son's murderers to justice was an inspiration to other African Americans. V: Black and white footage from Eyes On The Prize of Rosa Parks (civil rights activist); of Martin Luther King Jr. (civil rights leader); of a city bus in Montgomery, Alabama; of white people seated at the front of a bus. Footage of Mamie Till-Mobley and James Farmer (civil rights activist) at a press conference in Boston in June of 1988. Till talks about her quest for justice in 1955. Shots of reporters at the press conference. Till-Mobley and Farmer embrace. Jones reports that Till-Mobley and Farmer received lifetime activism awards from a Massachusetts senior citizen action group. V: Shots of members of the action group seated in a room. Footage of Alfred Saunders (member of the senior citizen action group) greeting Till-Mobley. Footage of Saunders saying that Till-Mobley's commitment to justice inspired the civil rights movement. Footage of Ericka Elcy (member, Emma Till Players) performing in front of the members of the senior citizen group. Elcy says that people must be committed to their goals and life's work. Jones reports that Till-Mobley has organized a group in Chicago called the Emma Till Players; that the young people in the Emma Till Players travel with Till-Mobley to spread the message of the civil rights movement. V: Footage of Patrice Richardson (member, Emma Till Players) performing. Richardson reciting a speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. Shots of Till, Farmer and the audience applauding for Richardson. Footage of Till-Mobley talking about how her role in the civil rights movement may have gotten lost in history. Till-Mobley says that her role in the movement stems from an "ugly" incident; that no one wants to remember "ugly" incidents. Footage from Eyes On The Prize of Till-Mobley in 1955. Till-Mobley says that she hopes that her son's death will mean something to other oppressed people. Shots of Till-Mobley at her son's funeral. Jones reports that the Eyes On The Prize series has shed light on Till-Mobley's role in the civil rights movement. V: Footage of Till-Mobley being interviewed by Jones. Till-Mobley says that she is interested in seeing a renewal of activism; that kids today need to be directed toward positive ways of living; that drugs and gangs are a problem for youth today.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/24/1988
Description: Ten O'Clock News special in celebration of South African leader Nelson Mandela to Boston. Carmen Fields, Christopher Lydon, Lovell Dyett and Elliot Francis host the show in the WGBH studios. Marcus Jones reports on preparations in the city of Boston for Nelson Mandela's visit. Jones' report includes footage of preparations on the Esplanande and footage of schoolchildren at the Trotter Elementary School rehearsing a musical piece and making posters. Jones interviews Jacob Abdul Khllaq (general manager, A Nubian Notion) about the Nelson Mandela books, T-shirts, and posters sold around the city. Carmen Fields interviews South African exiles Themba Vilakazi and Janet Levine about the life and leadership of Nelson Mandela. Fields's report includes photos and footage of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela. Christopher Lydon interviews in-studio guests Aggrey Mbere (Roxbury Community College) and Orlando Patterson (Harvard University) about Nelson Mandela. Patterson and Mbere talk about how Mandela's culture and education have shaped his leadership. Lovell Dyett reports on the debate surrounding divestment and the imposition of sanctions on the South African government. He notes that the Massachusetts State Legislature passed meaningful divestment legislation in 1983. Dyett interviews Caroline Hunter (Polaroid Corporation), Mel King (Community Fellows Program, MIT) and Robert Zevin (Manager, Calvert Social Investment Fund) about divestment. Dyett reports that Harvard University and the Gillette Corporation have refused to divest completely. Dyett interviews in-studio guests Dr. Willard Johnson (MIT) and Joseph LaBonte (Founder, American Business Initiative for a Free South Africa) about the debate over sanctions. David Boeri reports on Teko Manong (South African exile in Boston). Boeri interviews Manong about his opposition to apartheid and his exile in the United States. Boeri notes that Manong is a playwright, but has received little recognition in the United States. Meg Vaillancourt reports on Nthabiseng Mabuza (South African exile). Vaillancourt notes that Mabuza was paralyzed from injuries sustained during an attack on her home by South African security forces. Vaillancourt reports that the Fund for a Free South Africa helped Mabuza and her family settle in Cambridge. Mabuza discusses apartheid and her impressions of Nelson Mandela. Elliot Francis reports that Andrew Jones (filmmaker) has just returned from South Africa, where he shot a documentary series. Jones talks about the apartheid regime in South Africa as well as race relations in the United States. Francis's report includes footage from Jones's documentary. Francis reports that US citizens and local residents support Nelson Mandela's struggle for freedom. Francis interviews Edmund Barry Gaither (Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists). Gaither discusses the initiative by the National Conference of Artists to create artwork inspired by Soweto and apartheid. Francis' report includes shots of artwork by artists Kenneth Falana and Nelson Stevens. Francis interviews Sadiki Kambon (Project FATE.) about Nelson Mandela and the significance of his struggle. Christopher Lydon and Lovell Dyett interview in-studio guests Margaret Burnham (Fund for a Free South Africa) and Henry Hampton (Executive Producer, "Eyes on the Prize" ). Burnham and Hampton discuss what effect Mandela's visit will have on racial issues in the US. The special includes footage of Mandela speaking at the United Nations and footage of Mandela in South Africa after his release from prison. The special also includes footage of Boston residents and school children talking about Mandela. Producer - Juanita Anderson; Produced by Lenore J. Hanoka, Calvin Lindsay Jr. and Kathleen McKenna.
1:00:01: WGBH promotion. 1:00:09: WGBH logo. Visual: Shot of Zinzi Mandela (daughter of Nelson Mandela) addressing a crowd. Zinzi Mandela says that her father will return. Shot of Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) waving to a crowd as he prepares to exit a plane. Shot of an audience cheering. Shot of black South Africans dancing in the street as they celebrate Mandela's release. Shot of a well-dressed crowd celebrating. Shot of a parade celebrating Mandela's release. Shot of Bishop Desmond Tutu (black South African leader). Shot of Nelson Mandela speaking to the United Nations in New York. A logo for the show "Mandela in Boston" shows on-screen. 1:00:55: Christopher Lydon, Elliot Francis, Carmen Fields, and Lovell Dyett sit in the WGBH studios. Lydon says that Mandela is coming to Boston to greet key allies in the struggle against apartheid and the struggle for American sanctions; that Mandela is coming to Boston to raise money for the African National Congress (ANC). Dyett says that Mandela has been released from prison; that Mandela is still not free; that the South African people must still struggle to achieve democracy in their country. Fields reports that the she and her colleagues will examine Mandela, his message, and his connections to Boston. Fields reports that Mandela has become a larger-than-life figure. Fields notes that Mandela said that his reception in New York City was beyond his expectations. Fields reports that many UN delegates were on their feet to cheer for Mandela as he approached the podium at the UN. V: Shots of Mandela at the UN. Fields reports that Mandela repeated his call for sanctions against South Africa; that Mandela extended his greetings to the people of Palestine. Fields notes that Mandela said that the Palestinians are fighting for liberation and human rights. Francis says that Mandela is a phenomenon. Francis introduces a report by Marcus Jones. 1:02:46: V: Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) and a group of city officials unfurling a flag of the African National Congress (ANC). The group of city officials with Flynn include Boston City Councilors Charles Yancey, Bruce Bolling, and David Scondras. Shots of the media assembled on City Hall Plaza; of the ANC flag being raised on a flag pole. Marcus Jones reports that there is much excitement surrounding the preparations for the arrival of Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) in Boston. V: Footage of Flynn addressing a gathered crowd. Flynn says that the people of Boston and the United Way will give Mandela a big welcome tomorrow. Shot of preparations being made on the Esplanade for Mandela's visit; of preparations at the Hatch Shell. Jones reports that Mandela's visit is as important as the visit by Pope John Paul II in the 1980s. V: Footage of Maurice Lewis (Public Affairs Director, WBCN radio) being interviewed. Lewis says that the whole city is pulling together to prepare for Mandela's visit; that the city of Boston is rising to the occasion. Shots of a group of people of diverse races walking along a street. Jones reports that more than 4,000 people are expected to take part in a Walk for Freedom tomorrow morning; that the walk will begin in Roxbury and end at the Esplanade. V: Footage of Loraine Sterling (senior, Jeremiah Burke High School) being interviewed. Sterling says that the organizers of the walk wanted to show their support for Mandela. Jones reports that students from the William Trotter Elementary School are rehearsing a prayer for Mandela; that the work was composed two years before. Jones reports that the students will perform for Mandela at a private reception tomorrow evening at the Copley Plaza Hotel. V: Shots of students rehearsing at the Trotter School. Shots of students rehearsing on stage; of a teacher watching the students; of students playing music on water glasses; of students playing percussion instruments; of students on stage. Footage of Priscilla Purvis (fifth grader, William Trotter School) being interviewed. Purvis says that Mandela helps people; that not everyone helps people. Footage of Molly Costello (fourth grader, William Trotter School) being interviewed by Jones. Costello says that Mandela fights for freedom; that he does not give up. Shots of students making posters in preparation for Mandela's visit. Shot of a sign reading, "Mandela, Roxbury loves you." Jones reports that Mandela's name and image appear on souvenir merchandise being sold across the city; that proceeds support Mandela's mission in South Africa. V: Shot of books about Mandela; of a woman putting pamphlets about Mandela on a rack; of T-shirts with Mandela's face; of buttons with Mandela's image. Shot of a worker in the store A Nubian Notion. The worker folds a Mandela T-shirt and puts it in a bag. Footage of Jacob Abdul Khllaq (General Manager, A Nubian Notion) being interviewed in the store. Khllaq says that people recognize the impact that Mandela has had on the world; that people want a piece of history. Footage of an African American man and a small boy standing in front of a poster of Mandela. The man tells the boy that Mandela is a great leader. Footage of Lisa Grant (resident) being interviewed. Grant says that Mandela has sacrificed 27 years of his life. Grant says that Mandela is a hero. Shot of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela) in New York City with David Dinkins (mayor of New York City). This news story is accompanied by intermittent music. 1:05:15: Fields reports that Mandela's years in prison did not diminish his image; that Mandela was released from prison last February; that Mandela emerged with his ideals intact. V: News footage of Mandela in South Africa after his release from prison. Shots of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela). Shots of Mandela at an ANC rally after his release from prison. Footage of Themba Vilakazi (South African exile) being interviewed by Fields. Vilakazi says that he did not predict the release of Nelson Mandela from prison. Carmen Fields reports that Vilakazi left South Africa 25 years ago; that he remembers when Mandela was sent to prison in June of 1964. Fields reports that Mandela was sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of high treason and sabotage. V: Black and white footage of a prison truck leaving a South African government building. A crowd stands outside of the building. Shot of a black and white photograph of Mandela surrounded by government officials. Fields reports that Janet Levine (South African exile) has been in the US for six years. V: Footage of Levine being interviewed by Fields. Levine says that Mandela disappeared and the ANC was banned by the South African government. Levine says that she feared that Mandela would die in prison; that she was thrilled when he was released. Shots of Mandela at the demonstration in the South African stadium; of an upraised fist. Fields reports that Mandela is a living legend who embodies the struggle of a nation; that Mandela carries great moral authority. V: Shot of a black and white photo of Mandela before he went to prison. Shot of traffic passing by police in South Africa the late 1950s or early 1960s. Shot of a black and white photo of Mandela among a large group of people; of a black and white portrait of Mandela. Fields reports that Mandela was 25 when he joined the African National Congress (ANC); that Mandela became the ANC's national president six years after he joined the organization. Fields reports that Mandela was banned; that Mandela was arrested by South African police at a protest in Sharpeville in 1960. Fields notes that Sharpeville was the scene of a police attack which left 67 people dead. V: Black and white footage of a black demonstrators at Sharpeville; of two men holding protest signs. Shots of a body lying on the ground; of police dragging a body along the ground. Shots of black men running along a street; of black men waving from a departing bus. Shots of white police officers checking the identity papers of a black man; of a black man lying on the ground with his hands over his eyes; of the body of a black man lying on a street; of another body lying on the ground. Fields reports that Mandela fled to Algiers after his arrest; that Mandela received training in guerilla warfare in Algiers. Fields reports that Mandela no longer believed in 1960 that the fight against apartheid could be non-violent. V: Black and white footage of Mandela delivering a speech in 1961. Mandela says that it is useless to preach peace and nonviolence against a government which engages in savage attacks on its defenseless citizens. Fields reports that Mandela was captured a year later; that Mandela's diary was used as evidence in his nine-month trial for treason. Fields reports that Mandela's diary contained notes on guerilla warfare tactics. V: Black and white shot of men handcuffed together. One man flips through a small notebook. Black and white shots of South African Security Forces outside of a government building; of a crowd in a street; of a prison truck moving along a street. Footage of Levine being interviewed by Fields. Levine says that it was a crime to have a photograph of Mandela; that it was a crime to have read Mandela's writings. Levine says that Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela) was also an important figure; that Winnie Mandela was constantly protesting and defying the South African police. Black and white shot of Winnie Mandela in the 1960s. Color footage of Winnie Mandela arguing with white officials in the street. Winnie Mandela is led away. Fields notes that Winnie Mandela maintained her defiance while Nelson Mandela was in prison. V: Audio of Levine saying that Winnie Mandela kept Nelson Mandela's name alive while he was in prison. Shot of a black and white photo of Mandela in prison. Black and white shots of South African Security Forces; of a demonstration in South Africa; of demonstrators. Black and white shot of a park bench bearing a "whites only" sign. Fields reports that the South African government made conditional offers to set Mandela free; that Mandela refused to accept their conditions. V: Footage of Vilikazi being interviewed by Fields. Vilikazi says that Mandela has great appeal; that many would like to associate themselves with Mandela. Footage of Mandela at the demonstration in a South African stadium on February 13, 1990. Mandela addresses the crowd. Mandela raises his fist as he speaks. Fields reports that Mandela is uncompromising; that Mandela has never renounced armed struggle as a means to end apartheid. Fields notes that Mandela advocates peace. V: Footage of Mandela addressing the crowd at the demonstration. Mandela says that the movement will move forward to achieve freedom and justice. Footage of Levine being interviewed by Fields. Levine says that Mandela is no longer a politician; that Mandela has been ennobled. Footage of Vilikazi being interviewed by Fields. Vilikazi says that South Africa has not changed a lot since Mandela was put in jail. Vilikazi says that there are more repressive laws now than in 1964. Vilikazi says that there is still reason to fight. Shots of a large group of people filling up a road in South Africa; of demonstrators at the stadium; of Mandela walking with an upraised fist; of a small black child with his hand held up. 1:10:31: Lydon says that Mandela has no international counterpart; that Mandela is "an unrepentant revolutionary"; that Mandela also symbolizes the possibility of reconciliation. Lydon introduces Aggrey Mbere (Roxbury Community College) and Orlando Patterson (Harvard University) as in-studio guests. Lydon notes that Mbere is a history teacher from South Africa; that Patterson is a sociologist. Lydon says that Mandela is rational, ascetic, and charismatic in a quiet way. Mbere says that Mandela is steeped in African tradition. Lydon asks if Mandela's character was formed before prison. Mbere says that it was; that Mandela has always believed in the glory of Africa's past. Mbere says that Mandela grew up listening to the elders; that the elders were illiterate by Western standards; that the elders fought against colonialism in South Africa. Mbere says that Mandela was sent to school in order to understand the western way of life. Lydon asks about the effects of prison on Mandela's character. Lydon notes that Mandela's mind works in an orderly and disciplined fashion. Mbere says that Robben Island became known as "Mandela university." Mbere says that political prisoners studied under Mandela; that Mandela has a law degree. Mbere says that the leadership of the ANC are all learned. Mbere talks about ANC leaders Govan Mbeki and Walter Sisulu. Mbere says that Sisulu wrote a book while in prison. Mbere says that Mandela combines African tradition with an intellectualism. Patterson compares Mandela to other anti-colonial leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru (leader of India). Patterson agrees that Mandela combines African tradition with western learning. Patterson says that Mandela learned to struggle without fear or hate; that Mandela learned this from Mahatma Gandhi (Indian leader). Patterson says that anti-colonial struggles produce a specific type of leader. Lydon says that African-American leaders tend to be church-based and charismatic. Lydon asks about Mandela's appeal in the US. Mbere compares Mandela to W.E.B. DuBois. Mbere says that Mandela and DuBois are intellectuals. Patterson says that Mandela has made a strong impression on African Americans and white Americans. Patterson talks about Mandela's courage and dignity. Patterson says that Americans need a hero like Mandela; that the US is coming out of a stage of economic greed and spiritual poverty. Patterson says that Mandela embodies selflessness. Patterson says that the fall of communism is forcing the US to take a new look at foreign policy. Patterson says that Mandela and South Africa are important issues in the new US foreign policy. 1:17:50: V: Footage of Mandela addressing an audience in New York City. Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) and others stand behind him. Mandela says that sanctions should be maintained. Mandela says that sanctions were introduced in order to break down apartheid. 1:18:33: Francis and Fields sit in the WGBH studios. Francis says that Mandela wants sanctions to be maintained; that some do not agree with Mandela. Fields reports that Mandela and the ANC do not want any business or institution to do business with South Africa. Fields reports that F.W. de Klerk (President of South Africa) released Mandela in order to send a message that sanctions are painful. Fields reports that the US has refused to lift sanctions so far. 1:19:15: V: Footage of F.W. de Klerk (President of South Africa) speaking to an audience at a press conference. De Klerk expresses his hopes for a "new and just" South Africa. De Klerk shakes hands with Mandela. Dyett reports that de Klerk is hoping that his efforts at establishing a democracy in South Africa will convince the US to lift sanctions. Dyett says that sanctions have crippled the South African economy; that sanctions have helped to bring about a complete change in South African apartheid laws. V: Shot of Mandela speaking at the press conference. Dyett reports that the economy has suffered; that black South Africans have also suffered. Dyett reports that unemployment has increased; that health and welfare programs have been reduced. V: Shot of black South Africans standing in a line on a sidewalk. Shot of black South Africans at a rural medical clinic. Dyett reports that Americans started acting against apartheid in 1970. Dyett notes that Caroline Hunter (former Polaroid employee and member of the Fund for a Free South Africa) complained that Polaroid cameras were being used to produce the green cards issued to black South Africans. V: Footage of Hunter being interviewed by Dyett. Hunter says that she and other activists began to explore Polaroid's activities in South Africa; that they encountered hostility from other employees. Hunter says that the activists called a rally; that the green cards are the "handcuffs which keep the South African populace in check." Footage of Mel King (Community Fellows Program, MIT) being interviewed. King says that it is easy to impact a nation's politics through its economy. King says that it is important to stop supporting companies who do business with the South African government. Dyett reports that King was the first state legislator to introduce a bill which would forbid the state to do business with companies who do business in South Africa. V: Shot of Thomas McGee (Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives) in the chambers of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Footage of King being interviewed. King says that the Massachusetts State Legislature passed the most meaningful divestiture legislation in the nation in 1983. King says that the bill was supported by a diverse group of legislators. Dyett reports that 35 states and several municipalities have enacted legislation to restrict companies from doing business in South Africa. V: Shots of the Massachusetts State House; of the Massachusetts state flag flying from the flagpole. Dyett notes that Ray Flynn (mayor of Boston) issued an executive order against apartheid during his first year in office. V: Shot of Flynn. Dyett reports that Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts) curbed state business with nearly 2800 companies. V: Shot of the Massachusetts State House. Footage of Dukakis being interviewed. Dukakis says that the state of Massachusetts will not do business with or invest in companies doing business in South Africa. Dyett reports that Gillette Corporation is based in Boston; that Gillette is one of largest US companies refusing to divest from South Africa. V: Shots of Gillette headquarters. Dyett reports that Gillette officials says that divestment will hurt black South Africans; that the Gillette Corporation has signed the Sullivan Principles. Dyett notes that the Sullivan Principles were authored by Leon Sullivan (minister from Philadelphia); that the principles urge corporations doing business in South Africa to embrace racial equality in the workplace. V: Shot of two African American men exiting the Gillette building. Shot of a sign for Gillette Park. Dyett reports that Gillette boasts of gains in wages, skill training, and promotion to managerial positions. V: Shots of two African American women exiting the Gillette building. Dyett reports that Harvard University has refused to sell all of its stock in corporations doing business in South Africa. V: Shot of Baker Library on the campus of the Harvard University Business School. Footage of Derek Bok (President of Harvard University) speaking at a press conference. Bok says that he remains opposed to total divestiture; that the divestment effort is trying to make the university into an instrument for political change. Bok says that this pressure is detrimental to institutions of higher education. Footage of Robert Zevin (Manager, Calvert Social Investment Fund) being interviewed. Zevin says that no one is burning books or denying peoples' access to health care at Harvard University. Zevin says that the South African government are "thugs and fascists." Zevin says that Harvard would take a different attitude if the university were directly affected by the actions of the South African government. Shot of a sign for the Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration. Dyett reports that large institutions and government can divest large sums of money; that individuals can do the same. Dyett reports that the Zevin manages the Calvert Investment Fund; that the fund tries to invest in companies not doing business in South Africa. V: Shot of a man, a woman and a child standing in front of the Massachusetts State House. Shot of literature for the Calvert Investment Fund. Footage of Zevin being interviewed by Dyett. Zevin says that he has been managing accounts since 1967; that he has never invested in companies doing business in South Africa; that he has had good results. Zevin says that the South African business community has been outspoken in its stance against apartheid; that South African businesses cannot withdraw from the country. Footage of Hunter being interviewed. Hunter says that Americans should do everything they can to support sanctions. Hunter says that US and international sanctions, together with the actions of black South Africans, brought about the release of Mandela. 1:24:59: Dyett introduces in-studio guests Dr. Willard Johnson (MIT) and Joseph LaBonte (Founder, American Business Initiative for a Free South Africa). Dyett notes that Johnson is a founding member of TransAfrica; that LaBonte is a former president of Reebok International. Johnson is wearing a Mandela T-shirt. Dyett asks about the impact of sanctions since 1985. Johnson says that a South African Central Bank analyst has said that sanctions have had an impact of 100 billion rand. Johnson says that $100 billion rand could be the equivalent of $45 billion. Johnson says that 10 billion rand in capital has been withdrawn from the company. Johnson says that the South African government has been affected by the decrease in investments and the loss of trade revenues. Johnson talks about the "multiplier effect" of money which has not circulated through the economy. Dyett asks if the "multiplier effect" has has a detrimental impact on black South Africans. Johnson says that sanctions have had a detrimental effect; that black South Africans were already deprived under the apartheid system. Johnson says that black South Africans were almost outside of the economy before sanctions; that many black South Africans depend on the rural and agricultural sectors. Johnson says that sanctions need to be kept in place; that the period of transition to a new economy needs to be short. Dyett asks LaBonte about his support for "moral capitalism." LaBonte says that the victims of apartheid are never heard from; that US business needs to listen to black South Africans. Dyett asks if US businesses should provide jobs, skills and training. LaBonte says that US businesses should provide jobs, skills and training at the right time. LaBonte says that US businesses would be making a mistake if they returned to South Africa now. LaBonte says that sanctions have been effective in promoting change in South Africa. LaBonte says that the government should not be awarded before they make any real changes. LaBonte says that black South Africans are willing to undergo hardship in the short term in order to affect long-term changes. Dyett asks about African Americans and businessmen who are working to end sanctions. Johnson says that supporters of sanctions need to pressure their elected officials and the president. Johnson says that the president seems to be looking at ways to lessen the effects of sanctions; that popular opinion supports sanctions. LaBonte says that he respects the position of businesses who have stayed in South Africa; that some businesses have good intentions. LaBonte says that companies who stay in South Africa are prolonging the apartheid system. LaBonte says that he has plans to convene the major corporations to talk about sanctions and South Africa. LaBonte says that Mandela spoke to a group of leaders from major corporations today; that Mandela talked about business issues like nationalization. Dyett asks if nationalization is a threat. LaBonte says that nationalization is not a threat; that one-third of the economy is already nationalized. Dyett closes the interview. 1:31:07: V: Footage of Mandela addressing a crowd in Soweto on February 13, 1990. Mandela says that he is happy to return to Soweto; that he is sad about the continuing inhumanity of the apartheid system. Mandela talks about the unemployment, the housing shortage, the education crisis, and crime. Mandela says that the ANC will continue to pursue an armed struggle against the government until apartheid is finished. 1:32:05: Francis reports that Boston has many connections to South Africa; that many native South Africans are fighting apartheid from their homes in Boston. Fields reports that African Americans and black South Africans both find themselves living in appalling conditions in both nations. Fields introduces a report by David Boeri. 1:32:42: V: Footage of Teko Manong (South African exile) walking across a parking lot and entering a building. Footage of Manong working in the kitchen of a restaurant. Boeri reports that Manong is one of the thousands of South Africans who are exiled from their homeland. Boeri reports that Manong has been in the US for 30 years; that Manong grew up in Soweto. V: Shot of a black and white photo of Manong as a boy in Soweto. He stands with two other boys. Footage of Manong working in the restaurant kitchen. Boeri reports that Manong joined the Defiance Campaign and the Potato Boycott in South Africa in the 1950s. V: Footage of Manong being interviewed by Boeri. Manong says that white South African potato farmers would bury the bodies of murdered black South Africans in their fields. Manong says that the potato farmers would brag about the size of their crops and the effectiveness of their "fertilizer." Close-up shot of Manong flipping through his South African passbook. Boeri reports that black South Africans were forced to carry their passbooks at all times. Boeri notes that Manong organized a pass burning campaign in the 1960s; that the campaign resulted in mass arrests. Boeri reports that Manong was jailed without trial; that his promising career as playwright and composer was brought to an end. V: Footage of Manong in the restaurant kitchen. Manong breaks eggs into a large metal pan. Manong pours the eggs into a large pot. Shot of Manong leaving a building and walking across a parking lot. Boeri reports that Manong escaped from prison and journeyed to Ghana. Boeri notes that Manong worked for the South African resistance movement while in Ghana; that Manong met Nelson Mandela (black South African leader). V: Shot of a framed drawing of Mandela. Footage of Manong being interviewed by Boeri. Manong says that Mandela was a great leader; that Mandela helped him personally. Manong says that Mandela would often defend people without money when he was a lawyer; that Mandela was a remarkable man. Shot of Manong's US documents identifying him as a refugee. Boeri reports that Mandela helped Manong get to England; that Manong had hoped to pursue his career in England. Boeri reports that Manong has been politically silenced in South Africa; that Manong has been commercially silenced in the US. V: Shot of a poster for the South African play "Survival." Boeri reports that white South African playwrights have found producers and audiences in the US; that Manong has had little success because he is black and foreign. V: Footage of Manong being interviewed by Boeri. Manong says that his time in exile has been wasted. Boeri asks about the plays he has written while in exile. Manong says that he never should have escaped from prison; that he should have served time in jail for the cause like Mandela did. Boeri reports that Manong has not seen his wife or daughter for 30 years; that he was unable to return to South Africa for the funeral of his mother. V: Shot of a photo of a young black South African woman; of a black and white photo of Manong's parents; of a black and white photo of a gathering of black South Africans. Footage of Manong being interviewed by Boeri. Manong says that he does not want to return to South Africa; that he does not trust white people in South Africa. Footage of Manong working in the restaurant kitchen. Boeri reports that Manong has written a play titled "Excuse Me While I Disappear." Boeri notes that Manong represents the blighted hopes of many talented South Africans. 1:36:16: Fields introduces a report by Meg Vaillancourt. 1:36:36: V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza (South African exile in the US) singing a song about South Africa. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was born in South Africa; that her father was a member of the African National Congress (ANC). V: Footage of Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Mabuza talks about being shot by South African Security Forces when they raided her home. Vaillancourt reports that Mabuza was 12 years old when South African Security Forces raided her home; that her aunt was killed in the raid; that an uncle was wounded; that her mother barely escaped. V: Shot of a color photo of Mabuza as a young girl. Footage of Anna Mabuza (mother of Nthabiseng Mabuza) being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Anna Mabuza says that Nthabiseng Mabuza is lucky to be alive. Footage of Dr. Jane Schaller (New England Medical Center, Floating Hospital) describing Nthabiseng Mabuza's injuries. Schaller says that Nthabiseng Mabuza was shot in the abdomen and in the back. Schaller says that Mabuza is paralyzed from the chest down. Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza maneuvering herself into her wheelchair. Vaillancourt reports that the Fund for a Free South Africa (charity) has helped Nthabiseng Mabuza come to Boston; that Nthabiseng Mabuza is receiving free medical care at the Floating Hospital. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza is teaching local students about life under apartheid. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Nthabiseng Mabuza talks about the cruel treatment of an eight-year old boy at the hands of the South African government. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that children and adults are imprisoned and killed by the South African government. Footage from January of 1990 of Nthabiseng Mabuza working with her physical therapist. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza has physical therapy twice a week; that doctors are doing what they can for her. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza keeps her spirits up; that she has responded to her trials with courage and dignity. V: Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza in a wheelchair. She wheels herself through the house and into a room. Audio of "I'm Forever Your Girl" by Paula Abdul plays in the background. Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza in her bedroom. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Vaillancourt asks Nthabiseng Mabuza if she is bitter. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that she gets angry sometimes; that she is not bitter. Nthabiseng Mabuza says that South African citizens must work toward achieving a democratic society. Vaillancourt reports that Nthabiseng Mabuza will meet Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) tomorrow; that Nthabiseng Mabuza will talk to Madison Park High School students about the struggle against apartheid; that Nthabiseng Mabuza will sing a welcome for Mandela. V: Shot of Nthabiseng Mabuza on her bed. She takes off her shoes and begins to study a notebook. Audio of Nthabiseng Mabuza singing a song. Audio of Nthabiseng Mabuza saying that she was not yet born when Mandela went to prison; that today's youth will be tomorrow's leaders. Footage of Nthabiseng Mabuza singing her welcome for Mandela. 1:40:08: Francis reports that Mandela inspired many to become activists; that Mandela inspired Andrew Jones (Boston filmmaker) to take action in Boston's neighborhoods. 1:40:22: V: Footage of Andrew Jones (filmmaker) working on a computer in an editing suite. Jones talks to a colleague about making an edit. Shots of his colleague who sits at an editing station. Francis reports that Jones has recently returned from South Africa where he shot a four-part series on South Africa for Black Entertainment Television (BET). Francis reports that the timing is good for Jones' series; that Mandela's visit to the US will spark interest in the series. V: Footage of Jones being interviewed by Francis. Francis asks about the mood in South Africa since Mandela's release. Jones says that the mood is mixed; that Mandela is a very popular figure. Jones says that Mandela managed to keep attention focused on his cause while in prison. Jones notes that many black South Africans have been detained. Footage from Maverick Media of a black South African talking about being detained and tortured by South African Security Forces. Footage from Maverick Media of Jones standing in front of a group of black South Africans who are celebrating the release of Mandela. Francis reports that Jones came up with the proposal to form a new city from the greater Roxbury neighborhoods; that the proposed new city was to be called Mandela, Massachusetts. Francis notes that Jones was praised and criticized for the proposal. V: Footage from the Phil Donahue show from October 30, 1986. African American community leaders Andrew Jones (Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project), Mel King (community activist), Bruce Bolling (President, Boston City Council) and Reverend Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) are guests on the show. Jones says that land control is the issue driving the proposed city of Mandela; that racial issues are not the driving force behind the proposal. Jones says that 95% of the African American residents are confined to one area of Boston. Jones says that white residents are welcome in the African American neighborhoods; that African Americans cannot walk the streets of many white neighborhoods. The crowd applauds. Jones says that Bolling is unable to walk the streets of the white neighborhoods. Footage of Jones being interviewed by Francis. Francis asks Jones how his trip to South Africa changed his perspective on the country. Jones says that the struggle against apartheid is larger than Mandela; that Mandela knows that he is just a part of the larger struggle. Jones says that South Africa and the US are very similar. Jones says that the only difference between the US and South Africa is that white people are the majority in the US. Shots of an elderly white couple walking in a park; of a young black couple sitting on a park bench. Shots of black shoppers on a commercial street. Jones says that the black townships surround the white communities in South Africa; that the white communities surround the black ghettoes in the US. V: Shots of a black township in South Africa; of black South Africans boarding a crowded train in South Africa. Jones says that blacks in South Africa and African Americans both live in substandard conditions; that blacks in both countries go home to black areas at the end of the day. Shot of black South African men getting into a van on a commercial street. 1:44:31: Francis reports that Mandela arrived in the US as a symbol long before he visited the US in person. 1:44:41: V: Shot of African American residents outside of the Mandela apartment complex in Roxbury. Francis reports that the name Mandela is synonymous with the fight for equality. V: Shots of an urban landscape; of black South Africans celebrating as they stand in the road; of a cliff rising up from the sea. Audio of a hip-hop song plays. Francis says that many artists express their ideas about South Africa through art. V: Shot of the painting "So-we-too" by Nelson Stevens. Footage of Edmund Barry Gaither (Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists) being interviewed on the grounds of the Center. Gaither says that many works of art about South Africa have been created in the past twenty years. Gaither says that a group of artists within the National Conference of Artists each decided to create a work on the theme of Soweto. Gaither says that the artists turned the work Soweto into "So we too"; that the artists saw parallels between the experience of black South Africans and African Americans. Shots of the painting "So-we-too" by Nelson Stevens. Gaither says that Kenneth Falana (artist) created a series of works about popular resistance to apartheid. Shots of a painting called "Freedom's Cry" by Kenneth Falana. Gaither says that African American artists see Mandela as an untarnished symbol; that African American artists see parallels between the experiences of African Americans and black South Africans. Francis says that many questioned the choice of the name Mandela for a proposed new city to be formed from the neighborhoods of greater Roxbury. V: Shot of a map of the boundaries of the proposed city. Footage of Sadiki Kambon (Project FATE) being interviewed by Francis. Kambon says that Mandela is an international hero; that Mandela is a symbol of the struggle against injustice; that this struggle is worldwide. Shot of a group of black protesters. Kambon says that Mandela is an inspiration for Africans across the world. Kambon says that he hopes Mandela's visit will renew the commitment of supporters for the proposed city. Shot of a poster of Mandela. 1:47:37: Lydon and Dyett sit in the WGBH studio. Dyett introduces in-studio guests Margaret Burnham (Fund for a Free South Africa) and Henry Hampton (Executive Producer, "Eyes on the Prize"). Dyett notes that Burnham also serves as a judge. Lydon asks if Mandela's visit has changed the racial agenda in this country. Burnham says that Mandela's visit has raised people's spirits; that Mandela's struggle makes it clear that anything is possible. Burnham notes that Mandela's agenda is the liberation of black South Africans. Burnham notes that the problems and concerns of African Americans are not Mandela's primary concern. Hampton says that he has enjoyed Mandela's visit because he has learned about Mandela as a man. Hampton says that Mandela is regal, intelligent, and humane. Hampton says that many African Americans have someone in their family with those qualities; that white Americans may have never been exposed to a black man with those qualities. Hampton says that Mandela's visit makes people think about the tragedy of imprisonment; that many young African American men are currently in prison. Dyett asks if the roles of Americans have changed with Mandela's visit. Burnham says that the roles of American's have not changed; that the struggle against apartheid has not changed; that the struggle continues. Burnham says that Americans may be inspired to embrace their roles in the struggle. Hampton says that he is struck by Mandela's ability to focus on the heart of an issue. Hampton notes that Mandela avoids the trap of cynicism; that Mandela sticks to his vision; that Mandela has been unswayed by the media and politicians during his visit. Hampton says that Mandela is a great leader. Lydon notes that Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) seems to be studying Mandela during his visit to the US. Hampton says that Jackson has not tried to compete with Mandela; that Jackson has let Mandela have the spotlight. Hampton says that Mandela has a lot to teach all of us; that Jackson is a good student. Dyett asks how to keep people involved in the struggle after Mandela is gone. Burnham says that Mandela's presence renews people's sense of commitment to equal rights. Burnham says that Mandela's visit is important for Boston's young people; that the young people are witnessing a piece of history. Burnham says that the March on Washington in 1963 was also a piece of history witnessed by young people. Hampton says that the organizers of Mandela's visit have worked very hard; that Mandela's visit is like a presidential visit; that the visit has brought people together. Lydon asks about the legacy of Mandela's visit. Hampton says that young people will see an image of a black man who stands with the world leaders and commands respect. Hampton says that Mandela is a powerful symbol. Dyett thanks Hampton and Burnham. 1:55:03: V: Footage of Mandela addressing an audience in Harlem on June 21, 1990. Mandela says that black South Africans have been inspired by African American civil rights leaders including W.E.B. DuBois, Sojourner Truth, Paul Robeson, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., Marcus Garvey, Adam Clayton Powell, and Malcolm X. Mandela gives credit to the resistance of the South African people and the solidarity of people throughout the world. 1:56:01: Lydon, Francis, Fields, and Dyett sit in the WGBH studios. Francis, Dyett, and Lydon give information about the schedule of events for Mandela's visit to Boston on the following day. Fields and Lydon close the show. V: Shots of Mandela; of people cheering for Mandela in the US; of two African American girls singing the ANC anthem. Footage of a young African American man talking about the importance of freedom and Mandela's struggle. Shots of students making posters in preparation for Mandela's visit. Audio of Nthabiseng Mabuza (South African exile) talking about Mandela's struggle. Footage of a young white woman talking about the importance of Mandela's struggle. Footage of a young African American man talking about Mandela as a symbol of freedom. Shot of Walter Sisulu (black South African leader). Footage of an African American female student saying that Mandela is the most important person to visit Boston in her memory. Footage of an African American female student saying that Mandela's visit is exciting. Shots of black South Africans celebrating in the streets. Footage of a young African American female student saying that she is happy that Mandela is alive. Credits roll over images of Boston schoolchildren preparing for Mandela's visit. Shots of photos of Mandela throughout his life. Footage of people celebrating the release of Mandela; of Mandela. WGBH logo and promotion.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/22/1990
Description: Meg Vaillancourt talks to students at the Martin Luther King Middle School in Dorchester about their opinions of Nelson Mandela (black South African leader). The students tell what they know of Mandela's life and struggle. Two students compare Mandela to American civil rights leaders Martin Luther King, Jr. and to Malcolm X. Some students talk about whether violence should be used to further one's goals. The students agree on the importance of fighting for equality. They are united in their admiration for Mandela. Vaillancourt's report is accompanied by footage of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela) greeting crowds in South Africa.
1:00:04: Visual: Footage of Meg Vaillancourt (WGBH reporter) talking to students in the library of the Martin Luther King School in Dorchester. Vaillancourt asks how many students have heard of Nelson Mandela (black South African leader). All of the students raise their hands. Vaillancourt reports that Mandela had already been jailed for fifteen years when these students were born. V: Black and white shot of Mandela as a young man. Vaillancourt notes that the middle-school students knew a lot about Mandela. V: Footage of an African American male student saying that Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa. Footage of another African American male student saying that Mandela is the leader of "the black congress" in South Africa; that he was accused of participating in the bombing of a government building in South Africa. Footage of Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela) exiting an airplane onto a runway in Johannesburg. Nelson Mandela and Winnie Mandela wave at supporters. Vaillancourt reports that Mandela has been in the news since his release from prison. Vaillancourt notes that the students had heard of Mandela from their parents and friends; that the students recognized Mandela in thirty-year-old photos. V: Shot of Vaillancourt in the library with the students. Black and white shot of Mandela as a young man. Footage of an African American male student saying that Mandela reminds him of Martin Luther King (American civil rights leader). Footage of another African American male student saying that Mandela reminds him of Malcolm X (American civil rights leader). Footage of another African American male student says that black people need to fight for equality; that black people should use violence if non-violence does not work. Footage of an African American female student saying that violence should be avoided if possible. Footage of an Asian American female student saying that segregation in the US is like apartheid in South Africa. The student says that the people united to end segregation in the US. Footage of an African American male student saying that there are other ways to achieve goals besides violence. Footage of an African American male student saying that he would like to teach the South African goverment to trust black South Africans. Shots of the middle-school students sitting with Vaillancourt in the library. Vaillancourt reports that she spoke to students ranging in age from eleven to fifteen. Vaillancourt notes that the students believe that Americans can learn from Mandela's struggle. V: Footage of an Asian American female student saying that people need to fight for their rights sometimes; that there is a price to be paid. Footage of an African American male student saying that forgiveness is important; of another African American male student saying that Mandela showed patience and endurance during his struggle. Shot of Nelson Mandela raising his fist and smiling for the media.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/13/1990
Description: E. Edward Clark, a ninety-two-year-old African American man, speaks to a racially integrated class at the Hennigan Elementary School. The son of slaves, Clark answers questions from the students, and tells them vivid stories about his family's experiences in the south following emancipation and about growing up in Cambridge. Clark talks about his family and authenticating information about his family's history. He encourages the students to get a good education while they're in school. Tape 2 of 2. The original tape was damaged, and has been copied in sections. There are several jump cuts on the tapes dubbed from the original.
1:00:01: Visual: E. Edward Clark speaks to a racially integrated class at the Hennigan school. A student asks Clark how he found out so much about his background in Wilmington, North Carolina. Clark says that his mother and father talked a lot about the family background; that he was born in Wilmington, North Carolina. Clark says that he and his daughter visited Wilmington to find out facts about his family. Shot of a white female student in the classroom; of another white female student in the classroom. Clark says that he found a US census from the nineteenth century. Clark says that he found a listing for a slave in Wilmington; that he found a listing for his mother. Clark talks to the students about the Boer War in South Africa. Clark says that part of his family came from an area near Capetown, South Africa. A young white male student asks how much Clark's father paid for his freedom. Clark says that his father paid between $400 and $650. Clark says that $650 back then is like $5,000 today. A young white boy asks if free black people could get the same jobs as white people. Clark says that African Americans could not get the same jobs as white people in North Carolina. Clark says that there are now state and federal laws which force employers to hire people regardless of their race, creed or color. Clark says that his daughter's husband is the only African American judge in the Boston Municipal Court system; that his son is a colonel in the US Army. Clark says that African Americans who are educated and qualified can get jobs anywhere. Clark says that the south is better than the north today; that there are fewer problems with school desegregation in the south. Clark tells the students to get a good education in school. Clark says that the students can be whatever they want if they get a good education. Clark tells the students that Martin Luther King Jr. (civil rights leader) and Frederick Douglass (abolitionist) were both "doctors." Clark says that his son-in-law has a doctorate of law from Boston University. Clark tells the students that they have to be ready. Clark recites the saying about "building a better mousetrap." Clark says that the students will succeed if they are ready. 1:06:05: V: An African American female student asks Clark how many children he has. Clark says that he has five children. Another African American female student asks Clark about his job as a cook and waiter. Clark says that most of the waiters in Boston are white; that waiters are looking for good tips. Clark says that waiters do not have to associate with their clientele. Shot of a female teacher in the room. A white boy asks why Clark was not a slave if his parents were slaves. Clark says that he was born after emancipation. Clark says that he was born nineteen years after emancipation. Another white male student asks Clark if he would live his life differently if given the chance. Clark says that he would live the same life again. Clark says that he would not have his wife and children if he had lived his life differently. Clark tells the student that nothing in life is free. Clark says that he worked and paid his dues. A white female student asks Clark how old he was when he started working. Clark says that he started to work when he was twelve. A white male student asks Clark if his father fought in the Civil War. Clark says that his uncle fought in the Civil War. Clark says that he has a citation from the US State Department saying that a member of the Clark family has fought in every major American war. Clark says that he fought in WWI; that his son fought in WWII; that another son fought in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The student asks if the Clark family documents are worth money. Clark tells the students that a person is not educated if he or she does not understand tolerance. Shot of an African American male student. Clark tells a student that he needs to judge people by their abilities; that people should not be judged by their race, creed, or color. A white female student asks Clark how his family traveled from North Carolina to Boston. Shot of a white male student. Clark says that a steamship traveled between Wilmington and New York; that most shipping, trade, and commerce was done by ship.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/27/1977
Description: Jan von Mehren reports on Henry Hampton's address to students at Boston University. Von Mehren notes that Hampton talked about the importance of campus activism and civil rights. Von Mehren's report includes footage of Hampton speaking to the student audience. Hampton encourage students to make demands on the university administration. Pearl Shelton (community activist) addresses the students from the audience. She encourages them to become involved in the struggle for change in society. Von Mehren's report also includes footage of Rosa Moreno (Boston University law student) and Derek Davis (Boston University law student) talking about the lack of activism on college campuses. Von Mehren discusses the role of campus activism in the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Von Mehren's report includes footage from Eyes on the Prize of Diane Nash (civil rights activist). This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: K.C. Jones of the Boston Celtics reacts to racist remarks made by Jimmy "the Greek" Snyder on national television Reactions to comments by Jimmy "the Greek"
1:00:06: Visual: Black and white footage of the Civil Rights Movement from Eyes on the Prize. African American students face off with white police officers during the civil rights movement. African American student demonstrators are marching on a street. Shot of an FBI poster seeking information on the murder of three civil rights activists. Shots of students being escorted into police vehicles; of police using fire hoses on civil rights activists in Birmingham, Alabama. Shots of civil rights activists at city hall in Nashville, Tennessee; of Diane Nash (civil rights activist) standing with Ben West (Mayor of Nashville). Footage of Nash saying that she asked West if he believed that discrimination was wrong. Footage of West saying that he told Nash that discrimination was morally wrong. Shot of Nash applauding as she faces West. Jan von Mehren talks about how students were on the front lines of the civil rights movement of the 1960s. Von Mehren notes that some civil rights activists lost their lives; that some were jailed. Von Mehren talks about the participation of college student Diane Nash in the civil rights movement. Von Mehren says that today's college students have only vague memories of the civil rights movement. Von Mehren reports that Henry Hampton (civil rights activist and filmmaker) addressed a group of high school and college students today at Boston University. V: Shots of students listening to Hampton speak; of Hampton addressing the students. Footage of a white female student asking Hampton how Boston University can increase the enrollment of minority students. Hampton says that students need to be persistent in making demands on the administration. Von Mehren stands at the back of the auditorium where Hampton is speaking. Von Mehren says that the civil rights activists from the 1960s are trying to convince the younger generation to become active. V: Footage of Pearl Shelton (community activist) standing in the audience. She asks how many students are members of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) or the Urban League. Shelton says that students need to give something back to society. Footage of Shelton being interviewed by von Mehren. Shelton says that Martin Luther King (civil rights leader) would be disappointed in the lack of activity in the current movement for civil rights. Footage of Rosa Moreno (Boston University law student) saying that there is apathy among students today; that some students do not know how to become involved; that civil rights organizations need to distribute information to students. Footage of Derek Davis (Boston University law student) saying that students have not mobilized behind one cause or political candidate; that many students are disillusioned or skeptical; that some students are interested in fighting for change. Shots of Hampton addressing the crowd; of students in the crowd listening to Hampton. Von Mehren says that today's students have not united behind one cause; that many are trying to make a difference. V: Footage of Hampton saying that today's students need to dream like King did. Shot of the audience applauding.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/18/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports on Northeastern University's observation of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. Jones notes that a ceremony commemorating King's life was held at the university. Jones' report includes footage from the ceremony. Sonia Sanchez (poet and teacher) talks about King. Jones' report also includes footage of King. Susan Sullivan (Northeastern Law student) makes the announcement that the university is awarding an honorary law degree to Nelson Mandela. Interviews with Daniel Givelber (Dean, Northeastern University School of Law) and Sullivan about the decision to award a degree to Mandela. Jones notes that the university trustees overturned a policy which required recipients of degrees to pick them up in person. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: David Scondras, Charles Yancey and Ray Flynn: Boston City Council makes fair housing policy
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of an African American man performing a song at a ceremony commemorating the life of Martin Luther King (civil rights leader) at Northeastern University. Shots of the audience. Marcus Jones reports that hundreds of people gathered at Northeastern to commemorate the life of King; that King's 59th birthday is Friday. V: Shots of King addressing a crowd; of King marching at the head of a group of civil rights demonstrators. Footage of Sonia Sanchez (poet and teacher) talks about King's struggle to advance the cause of civil rights. Sanchez says that King's work is not finished. Shots of audience members applauding. Jones reports that Sanchez was the featured speaker at the ceremony; that the remarks of Susan Sullivan (Northeastern Law student) were the highlight of the event. V: Footage of Sullivan announcing that the Board of Trustees at Northeastern University has decided to award an honorary law degree to Nelson Mandela (jailed South African leader). The crowd applauds. Jones reports that Northeastern law students have petitioned the university for three years to grant a degree to Mandela. V: Shot of the entrance to the library at Northeastern Law School. Shot of a paper taped to the door of the library. A handwritten note on the paper reads, "Trustees grant Mandela Honorary Degree." Jones reports that the request had been previously denied due to a policy which required recipients of degrees to pick them up in person. Jones notes that Mandela has been jailed by the South African government because of his opposition to apartheid. V: Black and white footage of Mandela speaking; of a sign for Pollsmoor Prison, where Mandela is held. Jones notes that the university's decision to accede to the demands of students and faculty is unprecedented. V: Footage of Jones interviewing Daniel Givelber (Dean, Northeastern University School of Law). Givelbar says that Northeastern has an unusually diverse group of Trustees; that the Trustees felt like they were doing the right thing. Givelbar notes that the Board of Trustees made the decision to divest two years ago. Footage of Susan Sullivan saying that the degree should have been granted when the students first petitioned for it; that the law students should not have had to fight so hard for it. Sullivan says that international recognition could hasten Mandela's release from jail. Jones notes that the scheduled protest by the students turned into a celebration. Jones says that Northeastern students hope that other universities will follow Northeastern's example.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/14/1988
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Princess Zenani Dlamini, daughter of Nelson and Winnie Mandela, and her husband Prince Thumbumuzi Dlamini, son of the late King of Swaziland, will attend Boston University. The couple has expressed a desire to abstain from politics while attending the university. Press conference where Zenani Dlamini answers questions about her parents. Vaillancourt's report is accompanied by footage of events in South Africa and by footage of Nelson Mandela. BU President John Silber stirred up controversy when he awarded an honorary degree to Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi, the South African Zulu Chief, instead of Nelson Mandela. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Dr. Laval Wilson (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) must improve the reading skills of its students
0:59:58: Visual: Footage of Princess Zenani Dlamini saying that she has come to Boston to be a student. Footage of Princess Zenani and Prince Thumbumuzi Dlamini exiting a building and walking on the campus of Boston University. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Princess Zenani is the daughter of Nelson Mandela (black South African leader ); that Prince Thumbumuzi is the son of the late king of Swaziland; that the couple will be attending Boston University on full scholarship. V: Shot of Princess Zenani at a statue commemorating Martin Luther King (American civil rights leader) on the campus of Boston University. Footage of Zenani at a press conference, saying that she has come here to fulfill her dream and her parents' dream. Zenani quotes Martin Luther King, saying that people should not be judged by the color of their skin. Shots of the press at Princess Zenani's press conference; of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani speaking. Vaillancourt reports that neither Prince Thumbumuzi nor Princess Zenani discussed US policy in South Africa; that Princess Zenani answered questions about her mother and father. V: Shot of Winnie Mandela (wife of Nelson Mandela). Black and white footage of Nelson Mandela speaking. Footage of Princess Zenani saying that she first met her father when she visited him in prison at age 16. Princess Zenani describes the experience of visiting her father in prison. Princess Zenani says that she first hugged her father in December, 1977. Shots of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani at the press conference. Footage of Princess Zenani saying that she will focus on her education. Prince Thumbumuzi says that they will react to important events in their homeland, but will try to focus on their schoolwork. Vaillancourt says that Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani will try to abstain from political discussions; that Boston University is associated with the politics of John Silber (President, Boston University). V: Footage of Silber conferring an honorary degree on Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi (South African Zulu Chief) in November, 1986. Student protesters carrying signs walk out of the auditorium. Vaillancourt reports that protesters believe that Silber honored Buthelezi because he is a more conservative leader than Nelson Mandela. V: Footage of Princess Zenani at the press conference, saying that her father has no objections to her attending Boston University. Vaillancourt reports that there is controversy surrounding a "mansion" being built by Winnie Mandela in Soweto. V: Shot of a newspaper headline reading that the Mandela house is "fit for a queen." Footage of Winnie Mandela with black South African children. Footage of Prince Thumbumuzi at the press conference, saying that the controversy surrounding the house has been blown out of proportion; that Winnie Mandela has adopted many children who will live in the house with Winnie and her relatives. Princess Zenani talks about Winnie Mandela's strength and courage. Shots of soldiers in armored vehicles and gunfire in the streets of South Africa. Shots of Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani walking on the campus of Boston University. Shots of young black children in South Africa; of a shantytown in South Africa; of children on the street in South Africa. Vaillancourt reports that it will not be easy for Prince Thumbumuzi and Princess Zenani to separate themselves from the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/13/1987
Description: Jan von Mehren reports that Ralph Abernathy (author and civil rights activist) has written a book about his experiences in the civil rights movement with Martin Luther King, Jr. Von Mehren notes that Abernathy signed copies of the book in Cambridge; she adds that the book is called, And The Walls Came Tumbling Down. Von Mehren reports that the book is controversial because Abernathy has revealed King's human side and his faults. Von Mehren's reports includes footage of the book signing in Cambridge. Michael Dorn (Cambridge resident) says that he would rather not know compromising information about his heroes. Von Mehren interviews Abernathy. Abernathy says that King would have wanted him to write this book. Von Mehren notes that Morris Dees (Southern Poverty Law Center) is one of the leading critics of the book. Von Mehren reviews Abernathy's career in the civil rights movement. Von Mehren's reports includes footage of Abernathy speaking at the Cambridge Baptist Church, and later gathered in the church with Mel King and others. Von Mehren's report also includes clips of Abernathy and King from the film, From Montgomery to Memphis. After the edited story, there is additional black and white footage from From Montgomery to Memphis.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/08/1989