Description: Mayor Ray Flynn holds a press conference in Roxbury to unveil plans for a new housing and commercial development to be built on a vacant lot in Douglass Square. The Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) cleared the land in the 1960s and never rebuilt on the lot. The owners and developers of the new project are African American. Flynn and City Councilor Bruce Bolling talk about the new development. Flynn says that all neighborhoods and all residents must share in the growth of the city. Bolling says that the proposal for the creation of Mandela, Massachusetts is a no longer an issue. Bolling and other Mandela opponents believe that the new development signifies a renewed commitment to the Roxbury neighborhood by the city of Boston.
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) at an outdoor gathering in Roxbury. Flynn stands under a tent, addressing a crowd. Flynn talks about the vote against the proposal for the creation of Mandela, Massachusetts. Flynn says that the vote shows that the racial polarization of the city is in the past. Shot of the gathering from the back of the tent; of an architectural model. David Boeri reports that Flynn is advocating affordable housing and economic opportunity in every neighborhood. Boeri notes that Flynn unveiled a plan for a project in Douglass Square; that the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA) cleared a two-acre plot of land in Douglass Square in the 1960s; that the lot has been abandoned since then. V: Shot of a mural on the wall of a building in Douglass Square in Roxbury; of buildings in Douglass Square; of a vacant lot in Douglass Square; of architectural plans and an architectural model. Boeri reports that a housing and commercial complex is slated to be built on the vacant lot; that one-quarter of the units will be set aside for low-income housing. V: Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) saying that the project addresses the need for economic re-investment in Roxbury. Boeri reports that the developers and owners of the project will be African American; that Bolling noted that Roxbury is becoming a full and equal partner in the city of Boston. V: Shots of African American crowd members; of an African American man standing beside an architectural drawing of the project. Footage of Bolling saying that the incorporation of minority neighborhoods into a new city is a dead issue. Boeri reports that Flynn had a unity breakfast with Roxbury leaders this morning; that Flynn pledged to make the city of opportunity for all. V: Shots of the crowd at the gathering. Footage of Flynn saying that all residents need to share in the city's growth and prosperity; that development of the downtown must be accompanied by development of the neighborhoods. Boeri stands in the vacant lot in Douglass Square. Boeri says that the lot has represented an empty promise by the city of Boston to the people of Roxbury. Boeri says that Bolling and other leaders fought the idea of secession from the city. Boeri adds that these leaders say that the plans for the new project are a signal that "their time has come."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/05/1986
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports on controversy over a new student assignment plan for the Boston Public Schools, which minority members of the Boston School Committee spoke out against at a breakfast commemorating the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.. School Committee members John O'Bryant, Juanita Wade, Jean McGuire, and Gerald Anderson speak to the media. They do not believe that the plan will provide equitable education for all. The plan was proposed by mayor Ray Flynn. It will allow parents to choose which schools their children will attend. Interview with Flynn, who defends the proposal, saying that it's supported by parents. He adds that School Committee members have been asked for input on the plan. Vaillancourt also reports that Flynn has proposed the decentralization of the Boston School Department and selling off the headquarters of the Boston School Department. Vaillancourt reports that minority members of the School Committee may rescind their support for superintendent Laval Wilson if he supports Flynn's school choice proposal. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following items: Elma Lewis in Marsh Chapel at Boston University on Martin Luther King Day and Carmen Fields interviews Robert Nemiroff about the playwright Lorraine Hansberry
1:00:26: Visual: Footage of city and state leaders including Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts), Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church), Bernard Cardinal Law (Archidiocese of Boston), and Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) singing together at celebration in honor of the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (civil rights leader). Meg Vaillancourt reports that local leaders gathered over breakfast today to celebrate Martin Luther King's birthday. Vaillancourt notes that there was controversy at the breakfast over a new assignment plan for students in Boston Public Schools. V: Footage of Juanita Wade (Boston School Committee) speaking to the media. School Committee members John O'Bryant and Jean McGuire sit beside Wade. Wade calls the new plan "segregation redux." Wade says that the Boston Public Schools need to provide choice, equity, and a quality education right now. Footage of Flynn speaking to the media. Flynn says that the plan has the support of the citizens of Boston; that parents are looking for this kind of reform. Vaillancourt reports that the new plan would allow parents to choose which schools their children will attend; that parents have not been able to choose schools since school desegregation began in 1974. V: Shots of buses pulling up to the front of South Boston High School in 1974; of South Boston residents jeering at the buses. Shots of buses parked in front of South Boston High School; of African American students walking among the buses. Vaillancourt notes that the population of white students in Boston Public Schools has declined since 1974; that non-white students make up 70% of the student population in Boston Public Schools. Vaillancourt adds that the School System has been criticized for not providing students with a quality education. V: Shots of non-white students in a classroom; of an African American male student sitting in a classroom. Shot of Flynn. Vaillancourt reports that Flynn and two consultants have proposed a plan to improve the schools and to increase parental choice. V: Footage of School Committee members O'Bryant, Wade, McGuire, and Gerald Anderson sitting on a couch. African American community leaders, including Charles Yancey (Boston City Council), Eugene Rivers (African Peoples Pentecostal Church) and Louis Elisa (Boston chapter of the NAACP), stand behind them. Anderson addresses the media. Anderson says that the Boston School System needs to provide a quality education to all before it can claim to be equitable. Anderson says that the mayor needs to provide more funding to the schools. Shots of O'Bryant and other community leaders. Footage of Flynn being interviewed by Vaillancourt. Vaillancourt asks Flynn if he is surprised by the attitude of the African American community leaders. Flynn says that he has been working on the proposal for several months; that community leaders have had many opportunities to review and give input on the proposal. Footage of Anderson saying that he is offended by Flynn's attitude. Anderson notes that Flynn has said that the statements of the African American leaders are "bogus." Anderson says that the community leaders are standing up for their constituents; that Flynn's statements are "bogus." Footage of Flynn saying that the members of the School Committee have had input on the proposal; that the members of the School Committee voted twelve-to-one in favor of the plan. Flynn says that the School Committee members were told that they would have further opportunities to give input on the proposal. Footage of McGuire saying that Flynn's proposal will cost more money. McGuire says that the School Committee has not been given additional money to fund Flynn's proposal. Vaillancourt reports that the Boston Public School System spends more money per student than any other public school system in the nation. V: Shot of an African American teacher and student at the front of a classroom; of a white male student seated in a classroom; of an African American female student seated in a classroom. Vaillancourt notes that Flynn has come up with another controversial proposal to fund neighborhood schools; that Flynn has suggested the decentralization of the Boston School Department. Vaillancourt adds that the proposal would sell off the downtown headquarters of the Boston School Department on Court Street. V: Shots of the exterior of the Boston School Department headquarters. Footage of Flynn saying that the downtown headquarters of the School Department should be sold; that the money should be put into neighborhood schools. Footage of O'Bryant saying that the School System is going to end up back in court if it does not receive support from the city. Vaillancourt reports that Dr. Laval Wilson (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) has supported Flynn's school choice plan; that Wilson's contract ends in June. V: Shots of a meeting in the chambers of the Boston School Committee; of Wilson speaking at a School Committee meeting. Vaillancourt reports that the African American members have voted to extend Wilson's contract in the past. Vaillancourt notes that Wilson's future support among the Committee's African American members may depend on his position on Flynn's school choice plan.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/16/1989
Description: State Senator Jack Backman opens a press conference in support of Mel King (Boston mayoral candidate) in front of the State House. Other participants include Byron Rushing (State Representative from the South End), Mary Jane Gibson (State Representative from Belmont), Susan Schur (State Representative from Newton), Mary Goode (former State Representative from Roxbury), and Barney Frank (US Congressman). Frank voices his support for King's candidacy and discusses the reasons for his endorsement, specifically, Frank talks about King's views on economic development and about his leadership abilities. Frank says that King is a creative leader who will bring "enlightened policy" to the city. Various reporters point out that Frank endorsed Dennis Kearney (candidate for mayor of Boston) in the primary elections. King arrives, shakes hands with Frank, thanks endorsers, and asserts that his administration will focus on employment, education, and the youth of the city.
1:00:10: Visual: Shot of a Mel King campaign sign. Jack Backman (State Senator) opens a press conference in front of the State House. He notes that Mel King (candidate for mayor of Boston) has not yet arrived. He voices his support for King. He introduces Byron Rushing (State Representative from the South End), Mary Jane Gibson (State Representative from Belmont), Susan Schur (State Representative from Newton), Mary Goode (former State Representative from Roxbury). Bachman lists off some state representatives who are due to arrive shortly at the press conference. Shots of Schur; of Rushing. Bachman introduces Barney Frank (US Congressman). 1:02:33: V: Frank says that he will support King for mayor of Boston; that he served with King for eight years in the legislature. Frank says that King is an advocate for enlightened policy for the city of Boston. Frank talks about King's ideas for economic development programs; about the Community Development Corporation. Frank says that King's ideas for development are in tune with the needs of city residents; that King is sensitive to the problems of displacement and the needs of area residents. Frank says that King can speak effectively on behalf of a diverse group of people; that King was an effective and respected legislator. Frank says that King will make an excellent mayor. A reporter asks Frank about his previous endorsements for mayor. Frank says that he is not always good at picking the winning candidate; that he speaks out on behalf of candidates who have good ideas and programs. A reporter notes that Frank endorsed Dennis Kearney (State Representative) in the primary election. He asks Frank how Kearney would have been a better mayor than King. Frank says that he endorsed Kearney in the primary because he thought Kearney was a good candidate with a good chance of winning. Frank says that Kearney and King take similar positions on the issues. Shot of King supporters standing behind Frank. Shot of Christy George (WGBH reporter). Audio is muffled. 1:07:45: V: Frank says that the many of the candidates in the race had similar positions on the issues; that King has helped shape the debate on the issues; that King was one of the first people to talk about the adverse effects of development on the elderly and the poor. Frank says that King is responsible for focusing the attention of the city on the management of economic development in a compassionate and effective manner. Frank says that he respects Ray Flynn (candidate for mayor of Boston); that King is more creative, thoughtful and consistent candidate; that King has proven himself to be an effective leader. Frank refuses to speculate on who he would have endorsed if King were not in the race. Frank says that he is endorsing a candidate because he is an elected official with an opinion; that he does not know what effect his endorsement has on a candidate's chances. A reporter asks Frank about the differences between King and Flynn. Frank says that the differences between the candidates stem from their past records; that King has proven himself to be a consistent and effective leader on economic issues for many years; that King has the capacity to stay with these issues. Frank notes that he does not agree with King on a mayor's role in foreign policy. A reporter asks Frank if King needs to highlight the issues on which he differs from Flynn. Frank says that King has stuck with the same issues for ten years; that his leadership has brought attention to these issues. Frank says that this has been a good mayoral campaign; that it has focused on issues. 1:13:15: V: Frank jokes with the reporters about his endorsement bringing in the voters from Brookline and Newton. A reporter asks Frank how King can get white liberal voters to support him instead of Flynn. Frank says that King can win voter support by focusing on the issues; that his positions on economic development may win over voters from traditionally "conservative" neighborhoods. A reporter asks Frank about his campaign advice for King. Frank says that King is doing the right thing by focusing on the issues; that King has proven his ability to be a leader on the issues. 1:16:32: V: King's supporters clap as he arrives at the State House. King and Frank shake hands. King thanks Frank and the assembled state representatives for their endorsements and support. King says that his administration will make the city open and accessible; that his administration will focus on employment, education, and the youth of the city.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/21/1983
Description: Hope Kelly reports that city and state officials held a ceremony at the Massachusetts State House to honor Robert Gould Shaw and the soldiers of the 54th regiment. Kelly reviews the history of Shaw and the African American soldiers of the 54th regiment in the Civil War. Kelly reports that the 1989 film Glory tells the story of the 54th regiment. Kelly's report includes clips from the film. Bill Owens addresses the ceremony. Part of the ceremony takes place in front of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. Michael Dukakis and Ray Flynn are part of the ceremony proclaiming Glory Day in Massachusetts. Marilyn Richardson, the curator of the Museum of Afro-American History, addresses at audience at the African Meeting House.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a re-enactment of civil war soldiers marching in front of the Massachusetts State House. Footage from the 1989 film Glory. Hope Kelly reports that Glory took four years to make. Kelly notes that the film is about African American soldiers in the Civil War. V: Footage of Bill Owens (State Senator) reading a proclamation. The proclamation makes reference to John Andrews (former Governor of Massachusetts) who issued a call to arms for African Americans and to Robert Gould Shaw (US Army colonel) who commanded the Massachusetts 54th Regiment. V: Footage from the film Glory. Kelly reports that the Massachusetts 54th Regiment became the first African American fighting unit in the nation's history; that the Regiment was led by Gould; that Gould was a an upper-class white man from Boston. Kelly reports that army officials at the time did not think that African Americans could be competent soldiers. Kelly notes that the Regiment proved army officials wrong. V: Footage from the film, Glory. Kelly reports that city and state officials held a ceremony outside of the Massachusetts State House; that Thursday has been proclaimed Glory day in Massachusetts. V: Shot of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston), Michael Dukakis (Governor of Massachusetts), and other leaders at the ceremony. The leaders stand quietly in front of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial as a trumpeter plays "Taps." Shot of the media at the ceremony. Shot of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. Kelly reports that the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial has stood on Boston Common for ninety-three years. V: Shot of the face of a soldier carved into the Shaw Memorial. Shot of a group of female singers singing a gospel song. Men in military uniform stand behind them holding flags. Kelly reports that the Shaw Memorial shows Shaw on horseback and the soldiers on foot. Kelly notes that Shaw was on horseback and the soldiers on foot when they charged Fort Wagner in South Carolina in July of 1863. Kelly reports that Shaw and 32 African American and white soldiers were killed in the attack; that Shaw and the soldiers were all buried together. V: Shot of the Shaw Memorial. Footage from the film, Glory. Shot of the re-enactment march in Boston. Kelly reports that today's ceremony started at the Memorial; that the ceremony moved to the African Meeting House on Beacon Hill. Kelly notes that the African Meeting House served as a recruitment center for local African Americans during the Civil War. V: Shot of an African American man in military dress holding an American flag; of a group of African Americans in military dress at the ceremony. Footage from the film Glory. Footage of Marilyn Richardson (Curator, Museum of Afro-American History) addressing an audience in the African Meeting House. Richardson says that society must honor the principles for which the soldiers fought. Footage from the ceremony at the State House. An African American man sings "Glory Hallelujah." A crowd of media and attendees is gathered. V: Footage from the film Glory.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/08/1990
Description: Marcus Jones reports that state and local officials have come through with funding for a multi-million dollar program to revitalize Grove Hall, which is Roxbury's business district. The area has experienced hard times since the late 1960s. Press conference to announce the revitalization program. City Councilor Charles Yancey and Mayor Ray Flynn talk about the program to revitalize the district. Jones walks through district while conducting an interview with Walter Little, the Executive Director of the Neighborhood Development Association of Grove Hall. Little talks about the revitalization program and the development of the area. Little notes that there is a high concentration of subsidized housing in the area. Little talks about the history of the area, noting that the district once had a large Jewish population. Jones notes that the revitalization program will benefit current and future residents of the area. Following the edited is additional footage from the press conference and Jones' interview with Little while walking through the Grove Hall District.
1:00:23: Visual: Footage of Charles Yancey (Boston City Council) at a ceremony to mark the revitalization of Grove Hall. Yancey says that the revitalized Grove Hall will develop into the best community in the city of Boston. Footage of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) at the ceremony. Flynn says that the concerns of the Grove Hall community will no longer be ignored. Shots of the neighborhood; of signs for the Grove Hall Cafe and the Boston Legal Assistance Project. Marcus Jones reports that state and local officials have finally come through with a multi-million dollar program aimed at revitalizing Roxbury's business district. Jones notes that the area has experienced hard times ever since the riots which followed the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. (civil rights leader) in 1968. V: Shot of Jones in the Grove Hall district with Walter Little (Executive Director, Neighborhood Development Association of Grove Hall). Jones asks about a boarded up building on the street. Shot of a woman crossing the Street. Footage of Little standing with Jones. Little says that three tenants of one building have now become owners of the properties on the block. Little says that local residents must have the opportunity to participate in the ownership and development of a property. Shot of the streets in the area. Jones remarks that Little has lived in this area for forty years. V: Shot of a "No Trespassing" sign on a boarded-up building; of another boarded-up building. Footage of Little saying that the area has the largest concentration of subsidized housing of any area in the city; that there are 2800 subsidized units within the Grove Hall boundaries. Little says that economic balance is important to the survival of a commercial district. Little says that the small shops currently in the Grove Hall area are not enough to support a thriving commercial district. Little notes that many of the current businesses are fairly new to the area. Jones reports that Little remembers when there was a large Jewish population in the area; that Siegel's cafeteria was a popular restaurant in those days. V: Shot of Jones and Little walking on in the Grove Hall District, near a liquor store which once was Siegel's Cafeteria. Footage of Little saying that Siegel's Cafeteria closed in the early 1970s; that they were one of the last businesses to leave the area. Shot of the front of the liquor store; of two women walking on the street. Shot of a boarded-up apartment building. Jones reports that the revitalization plan aims to benefit the current and future residents of the Grove Hall area. V: Footage of Little saying that the money is available for the project; that buildings in the area will no longer be boarded up after the revitalization. Shot of Jones and Little on the street.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/20/1988
Description: Boston Redevelopment Authority public hearing on the homeless shelter Rosie's Place. Community members voice concerns and suggestions, including increased security and better lighting to protect the homeless women. Developer Elizabeth Fitzgerald speaks on behalf of Rosie's Place. Shots of the new development plan model. Board votes to tentatively designate Rosie's Place the development rights on Harrison Avenue. Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Kip Tiernan and Ray Flynn make statements at a press conference. Tiernan presents Flynn with a t-shirt that says "I helped rebuild Rosie's Place." Sound cuts out for a while in the middle of the video.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/09/1984
Description: Jan von Mehren reports that the city of Boston and the NAACP signed a $3 million settlement to end litigation about the city's formerly discriminatory public housing policy. Von Mehren reports that 2,000 minority families will be eligible for payments of $1,000 to $3,000 under the suit. Von Mehren's reports includes footage of a mayor Ray Flynn, Joseph Tauro (federal judge) and Benjamin Hooks (Executive Director, NAACP) at a press conference to announce the settlement. The three men shake hands and make positive statements about the settlement. Von Mehren report that African American families began moving into formerly white housing projects last summer, despite opposition from South Boston residents. Von Mehren's report includes footage of Flynn at a community meeting in South Boston in 1988. The audience jeers at him as he approaches the stage. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Marcus Jones reports that Michael Jackson (pop singer) has never played a concert at Sullivan Stadium
1:00:11: Visual: Footage of Dr. Benjamin Hooks (Executive Director, NAACP), Judge Joseph Tauro (US District Court), and Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) sitting together at a press conference. The three men shake hands together. Tauro proclaims it to be a "happy and proud occasion." Jan von Mehren reports that Hooks traveled to Boston to join Flynn and Tauro. V: Footage of Hooks saying that it is important to resolve problems through means other than lawsuits. Shot of Doris Bunte (Boston Housing Authority) and other officials from the city and the NAACP. The group enters an elevator. Von Mehren reports that the city of Boston and the NAACP signed a $3 million settlement. Von Mehren notes that some of the money will go to victims of the city's formerly discriminatory public housing policy. V: Footage of Flynn saying that the city has one set of rules; that the rules apply equally to all. Footage of Tauro saying that the settlement sends a message to the community; that the settlement represents the city's commitment to equal access to public housing. Von Mehren reports that approximately 2,000 African American, Asian, and Latino families will be eligible for payments of $1,000 to $3,000 under the settlement. Von Mehren notes that city officials say that it may be difficult to track down some of the families. Von Mehren adds that city officials will use the media in an attempt to reach the families. V: Footage of Flynn at a community meeting in South Boston on January 12, 1988. Flynn walks onto the stage as the audience boos and jeers. Shots of the audience members seated at long tables; of Flynn addressing the audience. Von Mehren reports that housing desegregation was met with great opposition in South Boston last year. V: Footage of Leo Tierney (South Boston resident) saying, "Leave us the hell alone." Members of the audience stand to applaud Tierney. Von Mehren reports that African American families began moving into developments last summer. V: Shots of African American movers moving furniture and boxes into a South Boston housing project; of white children playing with a garden hose outside of a South Boston housing project building. Von Mehren reports there is a low turnover rate in South Boston housing projects; that housing integration is proceeding at a slow pace. Von Mehren notes that the Old Colony Housing Project in South Boston is still 96% white; that it was 98% white last year. V: Shot of a white baby in a wading pool outside of a South Boston project building. Von Mehren reports that today's settlement was a peaceful conclusion to the housing integration controversy. V: Footage of Hooks at the press conference. Hooks says that Boston had once been viewed as a "citadel of liberalism." Hooks adds that Boston did not live up to its reputation during the busing crisis. Flynn interrupts Hooks to shake his hand in front of the media. Hooks, Flynn and Tauro rise from their table.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/04/1989
Description: Interviews with women school integration policy. A group tried to get Massachusetts legislators to tour Boston's schools, but only one Representative showed up. Women talk with the Representative. Ray Flynn in State House corridor. Woman discusses schools having specialized programs to attract students based on interest. Sound.
Collection: WCVB Collection
Date Created: 05/10/1974
Description: Report on an alarming increase in the infant mortality rate in Boston. Review of the statistics noting that the infant mortality rate among African Americans is 2.5 times the infant mortality rate among whites and that the increase was most pronounced in the Roxbury neighborhood. Interview with Dr. Bailus Walker, the Commissioner of Public Health, who says that the increase in the infant mortality rate is the result of a cutback in social programs from 1982 to 1984. Mayor Ray Flynn talks about the effects of cutbacks in social programs. The state has put $15 million toward reducing the infant mortality rate. Marian Wright Edelman, the Director of the Children's Defense Fund, speaks at a press conference, saying that the US has one of the highest infant mortality rates of any industrialized nation. The video cuts to black for 45 seconds during this story, from 00:01:34 to 00:02:15, presumably for graphics that weren't added to this copy. Following the edited story is additional b-roll footage of health care workers, parents and children at the Codman Square Health Center.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of a doctor examining a non-white baby with a stethoscope. Hope Kelly reports that the infant mortality rate in Massachusetts is nine out of 1,000 infants; that 22 of every 1,000 African American babies die; that the infant mortality rate for African Americans is 2.5 times higher than the infant mortality rate for whites. V: Footage of three young African American children playing outside of a housing project. Kelly reports that the infant mortality rate is 15 out of 1,000 for babies born in Boston; that the mortality rate for non-white babies born in Boston is 23 out of 1,000. V: Shots of a white child standing near a park bench; of a doctor examining a pregnant African American woman. Kelly reports that infant mortality rates have increased from previous years. V: Shots of an African American infant girl being undressed before a medical examination. Kelly reports that the state-wide infant mortality rate was 8.9 deaths per 1,000 babies in 1984. V: Video cuts out. Black screen is visible. Kelly reports that that the state-wide infant mortality rate was 9.1 per 1,000 babies in 1985. Kelly notes that the African American infant mortality rate was 17 per 1,000 babies in 1984; that the African American mortality rate was 22.1 per 1,000 babies in 1985. Kelly adds that the increase was drastic in the city of Boston. Kelly notes that the African American infant mortality rate in Boston was 11.7 per 1,000 babies in 1984; that the African American infant mortality rate in Boston was 15.4 per 1,000 babies in 1985. Kelly notes that the increase in the infant mortality rate was pronounced in the Roxbury area; that the infant mortality rate in Roxbury rose from 16.5 per 1,000 in 1984 to 23.4 per 1,000 in 1985. Kelly adds that the infant mortality rate in North Dorchester doubled from 1984 to 1985. V: Video cuts back in. Footage of Dr. Bailus Walker (Commissioner of Public Health) saying that he is concerned but not surprised about the rise in the infant mortality rate. Walker says that the infant mortality rate is the result of cutbacks made in social programs from 1982 to 1984. Kelly says that Walker and Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) blame cutbacks by the federal government. V: Footage of Flynn saying that the rise in the infant mortality rate is attributable to dramatic cutbacks in nutrition programs, housing programs, and other social programs. Kelly says that the state put $15 million dollars toward an effort to reverse the increase in the infant mortality rate in 1985. V: Shots of the State House. Footage of Walker saying that it is too soon to see the results of the effort; that the data for 1986-1988 will show the results of the state effort. Shots of a Boston Globe front page article. The headline reads, "Hub infant deaths up 32%. Kelly says that Boston is home to some of the nation's most advanced medical centers. V: Shots of Boston City Hall; of signs for Boston Hospitals, including the New England Medical Center Hospital and Children's Hospital. Kelly reports that the Boston's Mission Hill neighborhood is very close to the Harvard Medical Complex and other hospitals. V: Shots of a child riding a go-cart outside of a housing project in Mission Hill; of a woman standing at the window of her aparment, holding an infant. Shots of African American children playing outside of the housing project. Kelly reports that the infant mortality rate in Mission Hill is 50 deaths per 1,000 births; that the infant mortality rate in Mission Hill is as high as the infant mortality rate in many third-world countries. Kelly reports that there are high infant mortality rates among African American communities across the nation. V: Footage of Marian Wright Edelman (Director, Children's Defense Fund) at a press conference. Wright Edelman says that an African American infant born in Washington D.C. is more likely to die than in infant born in Trinidad and Tobago; that the US and one other nation have the highest infant mortality rates among twenty industrialized nations surveyed. Footage of Walker saying that he will be concerned if this trend continues for three or more years; that a one-year "snapshot" does not yet indicate a trend.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/09/1987
Description: Christopher Lydon reports that Mayor Ray Flynn is requesting the creation of a Boston Employment Commission in order to boost the number of Boston residents working in Boston jobs. The Flynn administration would like the Boston work force to be 10% female, 25% minority and 50% Boston residents. Interview with Flynn about employment in Boston. Interview with City Councilor James Kelly, who says that sanctions will be imposed unfairly on the construction industry. Interviews with Mel King and City Councilor Thomas Menino. Lydon notes that critics believe that compliance with the ordinance would cost jobs. Brief interviews with construction workers and white-collar workers about the proposed ordinance. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Minister Don Mohammad speaks out against drug traffic in Roxbury
1:00:02: Visual: Footage of a white male construction worker being interviewed on the street. The man says that he is from Boston. Hope Kelly (WGBH reporter) asks him which neighborhood he is from. The man says that he is actually from Billerica. The man says that he avoids telling people that he is not from Boston. Christopher Lydon reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) is requesting the creation of the Boston Employment Commission; that the Commission's goal would be to boost the number of Boston residents working on Boston jobs. V: Footage of Flynn being interviewed. Flynn says that Boston is experiencing a significant growth period; that there are plenty of opportunities for everyone. Flynn says that people are not fighting over crumbs. Footage of a white male construction worker being interviewed on the street. The man says that Flynn wants to put the "outsiders" out of work; that the "outsiders" are the true professionals who have been in the union for over ten years. Footage of another white male construction worker being interviewed. The man asks where he is supposed to go to work. The man says that the work is in the city of Boston; that he should be allowed to work there. Lydon reports that many construction workers fear displacement by the goals set by the Flynn administration. Lydon reports that the Flynn administration would like the Boston work force to be 10% female, 25% minority and 50% Boston residents. V: Shot of Boston City Hall. Lydon says that the present work force does not resemble Flynn's proposed work force. V: Footage of Hope Kelly interviewing construction workers at International Place. Two white male construction workers say that they are from North Attleborough. Another white male construction worker says that he is from Canton; that ninety percent of the workers on his job are not living in the city. Footage of Hope Kelly interviewing white-collar workers in Post Office Square. A white male says that he is a commuter. Another white male says that he is from Walpole. A white female says that she is from Newton. Another white female says that she is from Brookline. A third white female says that she is from Quincy. Lydon reports that Flynn's proposed ordinance would change the demographics of the work force in the public and private sectors. Lydon says that the greatest opposition so far comes from the unions; that the construction unions say that their field is being singled out. V: Shots of corporate workers crossing the street near Government Center; of a man carrying a brief case as he crosses the street. Shot of two white corporate workers conversing on the sidewalk. Shot of an African American construction worker talking to white colleagues. Shot of the State Street Bank building. Lydon reports that the unions have a political ally in James Kelly (Boston City Council and Sheet Metalworkers Union). V: Footage of James Kelly being interviewed. Kelly says that Flynn's ordinance talks about good faith efforts and voluntary agreements between the city and major corporations. Kelly says that sanctions will be imposed on construction companies. Lydon reports that the sanctions include potential fines against developers whose hiring practices do not meet the standards of the ordinance. Lydon notes that the mayor has issues two previous ordinances with similar goals. V: Shot of a backhoe excavating dirt at a construction site. Footage of Mel King (candidate for US Representative) being interviewed outside of his campaign offices. King says that the mayor has been unable to put "teeth" in the ordinance. Lydon reports that Flynn supporters point to progress. V: Footage of Thomas Menino (Boston City Council) being interviewed. Menino says that some trades are up to 20% and higher. Menino says that progress is being made. Menino says that the city has not yet imposed any sanctions on the construction trades. Lydon reports that King believes that sanctions are necessary. V: Footage of King being interviewed. King says that the ordinance needs "teeth." King says that there is no real monitoring process. Lydon reports that critics believe that compliance with the ordinance could cost jobs. Flynn disagrees with critics. Flynn says that at least six major public works projects are imminent. V: Shot of Flynn. Lydon reports that many workers do not believe Flynn. V: Footage of a white male construction worker being interviewed by Hope Kelly. The construction worker says that he does not believe Flynn. He asks Hope Kelly if she believes Flynn.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/24/1986
Description: Christy George reports that City Councilor James Kelly objects to an interfaith, interracial prayer service to be held in South Boston because he fears that the meeting could be seen as an endorsement of the city's plan to integrate South Boston housing projects. Kelly has called for the meeting to be moved to another location. Interview with Father Thomas McDonnell of St. Augustine's Church in South Boston and Reverend John Borders of the Morningstar Baptist Church. McDonnell and Borders say that South Boston is not a racist neighborhood. Interview with Jim Kelly. George quotes Kelly as saying that he opposes forced busing, racial quotas, and forced housing. Community leaders have met with Mayor Ray Flynn to discuss the peaceful integration of public housing projects, and hold a press conference. Doris Bunte of the Boston Housing Authority, Charles Stith of the Union United Methodist Church, John O'Bryant of the Boston School Committee, and Don Muhammad of the Nation of Islam, Roxbury speak at the press conference. George reports that Bernard Cardinal Law (Archdiocese of Boston) endorses the meeting. George notes that Flynn is pushing for housing integration over the objections of South Boston residents. Footage of Flynn at a community meeting in South Boston and footage of anti-busing activity in South Boston in 1977.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of Father Thomas McDonnell (St. Augustine's Church in South Boston) and Reverend John M. Borders, III (Morningstar Baptist Church in Mattapan) sitting together for an interview in South Boston. McDonnell says that both men believe in the power of prayer. Christy George reports that religious leaders want to hold an interfaith, interracial prayer meeting at St. Monica's Church in South Boston; that James Kelly (Boston City Council) has taken out a half-page advertisement in the South Boston Tribune; that the ad calls on the Catholic Church to move the prayer meeting to another location. George reports that Kelly fears that the prayer meeting could be seen as an endorsement of the city's plan to desegregate public housing projects in South Boston. V: Shot of the exterior of St. Monica's Church; of Kelly's advertisement in the South Boston Tribune; of a statue in front of the church. Footage of McDonnell saying that racism is a moral issue. Borders says that prayer is a means to change the people's hearts. Footage of police arresting two women on G Street in South Boston on May 12, 1977. Shots of police cruisers escorting school buses along a city street; of a housing project in South Boston. Shots of a sign for the Old Colony Housing Project; of a white woman and children in front of a housing project building. George notes that South Boston became a battleground during school desegregation. George reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) has announced that the public housing projects in South Boston will be integrated; that Flynn alienated many South Boston voters by pushing for public housing integration. V: Shot of Flynn approaching the stage at a community meeting in South Boston on January 12, 1988. The crowd jeers and boos as Flynn walks on to the stage. Shot of audience members seated at long tables. Footage of Kelly at the community meeting. Kelly says that South Boston residents will serve time for civil rights violations if the public housing projects are integrated. The crowd applauds Kelly. George reports that community leaders met with Flynn today to talk about peaceful desegregation of the projects; that attendees at the meeting expressed thinly disguised scorn for Kelly. V: Shot of Doris Bunte (Boston Housing Authority) speaking at a press conference. Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) and two other African American community leaders stand behind her. Footage of John O'Bryant (Boston School Committee) at a press conference. A reporter asks him if Kelly's name was mentioned in the meeting with Flynn. O'Bryant replies, "Who's he?" George reports that Kelly believes that affirmative action is reverse racism. George quotes Kelly as saying that "assigning the needy to public housing based on race is morally and legally wrong." V: Shot of Kelly at his desk. A quote from Kelly is written out in text on-screen. Footage of Kelly saying that supporters of equal opportunity must oppose forced busing, racial quotas, and forced housing. Footage of Stith saying that there are some elected officials who insist on keeping the city divided; that religious leaders are making an effort to unite the city. Footage of Minister Don Muhammad (Nation of Islam, Roxbury) saying that not all Irish residents are racist; that African Americans in Roxbury are not all drug addicts. George reports that Bernard Cardinal Law (Archdiocese of Boston) endorsed the prayer meeting. George quotes Law as saying that publicity "could lead to the erroneous impression that racial discrimination is a problem of geography, which it is not. . . . Racial discrimination is a problem of the human heart." V: Shot of Law addressing an audience. A quote from Law is written out in text on-screen. George reports that one of the goals of the prayer meeting is to debunk the myth of South Boston as a racist neighborhood. V: Shot of a white family walking in front of St. Monica's Church. Footage of Borders saying that Kelly does not represent the views of all South Bostonians. Borders says that he had no problems in South Boston when he drove to today's interview at the church. George reports that religious leaders say that the prayer meeting is not about politics; that the controversy surrounding the meeting has become political despite the efforts of religious leaders.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/20/1988
Description: Jan von Mehren reports that City Councilor James Kelly denies that Boston's public housing policy is discriminatory and plans to ask the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for proof of discrimination. He has proposed an alternative housing policy which allows tenants to choose where they want to live. Mayor Ray Flynn has agreed to present Kelly's plan to HUD for discussion. Kelly and Flynn attend a South Boston community meeting, where Kelly speaks out against housing integration. The crowd jeers at Flynn as he approaches the stage. Von Mehren's report is accompanied by footage of white and African American residents of housing projects in Boston.
1:00:06: Visual: Shot of James Kelly (Boston City Council) at a community meeting in South Boston. Shots of audience members at the meeting applauding; of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) at the meeting. Audio of audience members booing Flynn. Jan von Mehren reports that Kelly called a community meeting in South Boston to discuss public housing; that Flynn attended the meeting; that Flynn was booed by the crowd. V: Footage of Kelly at the meeting. Kelly dismisses the findings of discrimination in Boston public housing. Shot of a sign for the Mary Ellen McCormack Housing Development; of white women and children of a park bench; of a white boy scrambling under a fence near a housing project in South Boston. Von Mehren reports that there are approximately 2,000 housing units in South Boston; that no African American families have been placed in South Boston since Flynn entered office. Von Mehren reports that Kelly will ask the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for proof of discrimination; that Kelly has come up with an alternative housing plan. V: Footage of Kelly speaking at the meeting. Audience members are crowded into the room. Kelly talks about his "freedom of choice" housing plan, in which no family would be placed in a neighborhood without their consent. Von Mehren notes that Kelly's plan would permit African American families to move into white housing projects; that Kelly's plan would not force white families to move into primarily African American housing projects. V: Shots of a racially diverse group of children outside of a housing project. Von Mehren stands at the entrance to the community meeting in South Boston. Von Mehren reports that Flynn has promised to discuss Kelly's plan to HUD; that he will not submit the plan if it is deemed discriminatory. V: Footage of Flynn at the meeting. Flynn says that he will try to achieve as much choice as is possible in the new plan; that the new plan will not discriminate. Von Mehren reports that Flynn made clear that he has an obligation to work with HUD. Von Mehren notes that Kelly was clear about his intention to fight for South Boston residents. V: Shots of Flynn at the meeting; of Kelly at the meeting; of audience members.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 03/01/1988
Description: Mayoral candidates Mel King and Ray Flynn participate in a forum on education sponsored by the Citywide Education Coalition (CWEC) at English High School. Flynn talks about his experience in government and his commitment to the public schools. He notes his familiarity with the city and school budgets, and he discusses the importance of public education and public housing. King stresses the importance of early childhood education programs and a "child-centered" school system. King speaks of the need for the mayor to work together with the Boston School Committee. King says that the city must continue to demonstrate its support of integrated schools. King and Flynn respond to a question about requiring students to pass a standardized test in order to graduate. Tape 1 of 2.
1:00:05: Visual: Four members of the Citywide Education Coalition (CWEC) sit at a table on stage at English High School. A member of the CWEC welcomes mayoral candidates Ray Flynn and Mel King to the annual meeting of the CWEC. Flynn and King are seated at a table at the center of the stage. Shots of Flynn and King. The CWEC member says that the candidates and the audience will discuss the future of public education in Boston. 1:01:55: V: Flynn thanks the moderator and the CWEC. Flynn mentions his experience as a state legislator and a member of the Boston City Council. He says that he was a student in the Boston Public Schools. Flynn congratulates the CWEC for their commitment ot public education. Flynn stresses the importance of public education and a good school system. Flynn says that he has a Master's Degree in education from Harvard; that he is committed to education. Flynn says that he would visit a few public schools and a few public housing projects on his first day as mayor; that education and public housing will be major concerns for his administration. Flynn says that the mayor should be involved in public education; that politicians in Boston have distanced themselves from the public schools since desegregation. Flynn says that the mayor should serve as an ex-officio member of the Boston School Committee; that the mayor needs to be aware of the situation in the schools. Flynn says that he is familiar with the city and school budgets. Flynn says that fiscal stability and predictable student placements are important for the schools. The audience applauds. 1:07:56: V: King thanks the audience and the CWEC. King says that the students in the school system must be served from birth to graduation; that early childhood education programs are important. King says that resources must be allocated to support Head Start programs and other early childhood education programs. King says that "child-centered" school system must guarantee education for all students; that the school system must believe that all children can be educated. King says that the mayor must work with the Boston School Committee; that the members of the School Committee will be newly elected; that the mayor and the Boston School Committee must determine the problems and the needs of the school system. King says that the newly elected School Committee must be unified in support of integrated schools. Jump cut in videotape. King says that he would provide leadership on the issue of education; that he would work to create a good climate and to end divisiveness on the issue of education. King says that the Boston Public School System must demonstrate its commitment to integrated education. The audience applauds. 1:14:52: V: An audience member asks if students should pass a standardized test in order to graduate from high school. King says that standards need to be established in the early grades as well as upon graduation. King says that the school administration must be held responsible for the education of the students; that diagnostic testing and evaluation is needed at every grade level, not just upon graduation.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/13/1983
Description: Mayoral candidates Ray Flynn and Mel King participate in a forum on education sponsored by the Citywide Education Coalition (CWEC) at English High School. Flynn says that students graduating from Boston public schools must be prepared to compete in the workplace. He adds that there must be a working relationship between parents, teachers, administrators, and the community. King speaks about the workings of the school administration and advocates the inclusion of parents in the process. King and Flynn respond to questions about how they would have handled school desegregation if they had been mayor at the time. Both candidates answer questions about the role of the mayor upon the court's withdrawal from its supervisory role over the school system and about the school budget. Audience members include John O'Bryant of the Boston School Committee. Tape 2 of 2.
1:00:00: Visual: Ray Flynn (candidate for mayor of Boston) speaks at a forum on education sponsored by the Citywide Education Coalition (CWEC) at English High School. The candidates' forum is held in conjuction with their annual meeting. Flynn says that students graduating from Boston public schools must be able to compete in the workplace. Long shot of candidates on stage from the back of the auditorium. Flynn says that there must be a working relationship between parents, teachers, administrators and the community. The audience applauds. 1:00:56: V: King speaks about the workings of the school administration. Jump cut in the videotape. Shots of John O'Bryant (Boston School Committee); of members of the audience. King says that parents must be included in the workings of the school system. Shot of the candidates on stage. An audience member asks what each candidate would have done about school desegregation if he had been mayor at the time. The audience member also asks about the role of the mayor when the court pulls withdraws from its supervisory role over the school system. King says that community control over schools is important; that community accountablility is an important aspect of community control; that members of the community must be held accountable for the state of neighborhood schools. King says that he had suggested a community approach to schools which could have prevented the kind of sweeping court order imposed by the federal court to accomplish school desegregation. King says that he would have tried to bring people together in support of school desegregation if he had been mayor at the time; that there were many people acting in opposition to the court order at the time of school desegregation. King says that he would provide leadership on the issue of quality, integrated education upon the withdrawal of the court. 1:05:08: V: Flynn responds to the same question about school desegregation. Flynn notes that the State Department of Education will continue to oversee the Boston Public School System after the withdrawal of the court. Flynn says that he will work with the State Department of Education to protect the Constitutional rights of public schoolchildren in Boston. Flynn says that political and moral leadership was absent during school desegregation in Boston. Flynn says that he would have defended the rights and the safety of Boston schoolchildren as mayor, even if he disagreed with the court order. Flynn notes that he was a state legislator at the time of school desegregation; that he was criticized at the time for standing up for his beliefs; that he was criticized for living in a certain community; that he acted responsibly on behalf of all of Boston's schoolchildren at the time. 1:07:15: V: An audience member asks about the school budget. Flynn says that it is important to educate children; that it is more expensive to remedy social problems resulting from poor education. Flynn says that he supported funding for Boston schools even when it was politically unpopular to do so; that he is committed to providing the necessary funds to assure a good school system. Flynn says that accountability is as important as funding; that the school system has too many administrators. King responds to the same question. King says that he is aware of the lack of resources available to teachers and students in the Boston Public School System; that the lack of resources is embarrassing for a school system with a large budget; that the school administrators must make a commitment to provide resources for students and teachers.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/13/1983
Description: In this story on linkage, Christy George gives history of Boston development boom and affordable housing decline. She describes proposed linkage between the two in the form of taxes on new development, the proceeds of which would go toward affordable housing. Kevin White press conference. Interview with Bruce Bolling on his proposed linkage law. Interview with housing advocate Robert McKay, who is also on the committee reviewing the linkage law. There is a discussion of how exactly linkage will work. Kevin White, Ray Flynn, Larry DiCara, and Dave Finnegan all weigh in on linkage as a mayoral campaign issue.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/16/1983
Description: Compilation of Christopher Lydon stories. Christopher Lydon interviews Bill Lee (pitcher, Montreal Expos) at Fenway Park. Lee discusses the possibility of a baseball strike. Lee talks about unions and his feelings about baseball. Lee says that he is no longer "addicted" to baseball. Three essays by Robert J. Lurtsema about the coming of summer, the coming of fall and barnacles. Lydon reports on the upcoming preliminary elections for the Boston City Council. Lydon analyzes voting patterns in various districts and the political networks of some candidates. Lydon notes that there has been little voter interest in the campaign. The report includes interviews with and profiles of candidates Maureen Craven Slade, Craig Lankhorst, and Stephen Michaels. Lydon reports from the Boston Celtics' practice court in Brookline. Lydon interviews Ernie DiGregorio (basketball player) and Nate "Tiny" Archibald for the report. Lydon's second report on the upcoming preliminary elections for Boston City Council includes footage from interviews with several candidates including Maura Hennigan, James Kelly, David Scondras, Charles Yancey, Ed McNamara, and Michael McCormack. The candidates talk about voter anger and apathy, the city's fiscal crisis, the need for better city services and the policies of Kevin White (Mayor of Boston). Lydon interviews Donald Woods (South African journalist) about South Africa. Woods criticizes the US veto of the United Nations condemnation of the South African invasion of Angola. Woods says that the white minority in South Africa must negotiate with the black majority in order to avoid a civil war. Woods compares the political situations in South Africa to that of Northern Ireland.
1:00:04: Christopher Lydon interviews Bill Lee (pitcher, Montreal Expos) at Fenway Park. Lee says that he is happy to come back to Fenway Park to play a game. V: Shots of Montreal Expos practicing at Fenway Park. Lee says that he is disappointed to see changes at Fenway Park. He criticizes the disappearance of the bleacher seats, the installation of plastic seats and the increase in advertising at the park. Lydon asks Lee about the baseball strike. Lee says that the players had to strike to maintain the status quo; that unions in the US are being pushed out of existance by a "conservative" government; that he fears the advent of an Orwellian future in this country. Lee says that the issue of uncompensated free agency was not important to him; that he does not believe in free agency. Lee talks about the concept of free agency. He says that the baseball system is destined to fail because it is based on a "false foundation." Lee digresses, talking about the fact that Fenway Park is built on a landfill. Lee says that he is no longer "addicted" to baseball; that he does not need to play at the professional level; that he is playing professional baseball because his "old lady" wants him to. Lee says that the season has been exciting so far. He digresses again, talking about raising fish on an Indian reservation in Bellingham. Lee says that the US needs to give land back to Native Americans. Lydon and Lee shake hands as the interview ends. 1:04:27: Robert J. Lurtsema's essay on beach plums and the coming of summer. Segment is accompanied by shots of beach plums; of trees; of a deserted dirt road lined with bushes and trees. 1:06:59: Robert J. Lurtsema's essay on the coming of fall and the need to adapt a slower tempo as the year draws to a close. Segment is accompanied by shots of trees and the landscape in a small park. 1:09:51: Robert J. Lurtsema's essay on barnacles, which cover the rocks along the coast. Segment is accompanied by shots of barnacles-covered rocks along the ocean shore; of a marsh at sunset. 1:13:02: Christopher Lydon stands outside of Boston City Hall. Lydon reports that the preliminary elections for City Council seats are ignored by voters in non-mayoral election years; that six out of seven residents did not vote in the preliminary City Council elections four years ago. Lydon reports that City Council candidates represent areas of the city with a politically active electorate. V: Shot of a map of Boston. South Boston, Dorchester, and West Roxbury are highlighted in red. Lydon reports that some sections of South Boston, Dorchester, and West Roxbury had voter turnouts as high as 30% four years ago. V: Shot of the same map of Boston. Areas around South Boston, Dorchester, Hyde Park, and West Roxbury are highlighted in yellow. Lydon reports that neighborhoods with high percentages of white families and homeowners have higher voter turnouts; that these voters have often supported candidates like Louise Day Hicks (former Boston City Councilwoman) and Joseph Timilty (former mayoral candidate). Lydon reports that East Boston, the Back Bay, Allston/Brighton, the South End, Mattapan, and Roxbury usually have low voter turnouts. Lydon reports that City Councillors Rosemarie Sansone, John Sears, and Lawrence DiCara will not seek reelection this year; that the three councillors are popular with younger, progressive voters. Lydon reports that the young, progressive voters tend to live along the waterfront and in the West End, Chinatown, Beacon Hill and the Back Bay. V: Shots of DiCara, Sansone and Sears. Shot of the highlighted map of Boston with the waterfront, the West End, Chinatown, Beacon Hill, and a few other neighborhoods highlighted in green. Lydon says that progressive voters like a polished candidate. Lydon reports that there has been little interest in the campaign; that there have been few advertisements and little media attention. Lydon says that a good political organization is crucial to the candidates. V: Shots of candidates meeting with voters. Lydon says that "house party politics" is at the heart of the campaign; that Kevin White (mayor, City of Boston) has the best organized political network in the city; that his support will help the "Kevin seven" candidates. Lydon reports that police officers have a network which may help Ed McNamara (City Council candidate); that fire fighters may organize to help Joe Maher (City Council candidate). Lydon says that roots in a politically active neighborhood, a good political network, a polished image, and a recognized name are all assets in the race for a City Council seat. V: Shot of signs for City Council candidates Brian Hickey, Frederick Langone, and Ray Flynn. Lydon reports that Maureen Craven Slade (candidate, Boston City Council) was not endorsed by The Boston Globe or by White; that she has a very well-connected family. Lydon reports that Craven Slade uses her maiden name. Lydon reviews the political careers of her father, mother, brother and cousin. Lydon notes that her mother was a legendary City Councilwoman in the 1960s. V: Footage of Lydon interviewing Craven Slade. Craven Slade says that she has 60 first cousins in her political organization. Footage of Craven Slade saying that many voters remember her mother; that many of her mother's former supporters have formed a political network promoting her candidacy. Lydon reports that Craig Lankhorst (candidate, Boston City Council) is a progressive candidate who has been endorsed by the Boston Globe; that his support is strong in "non-voting" neighborhoods. V: Footage of Lankhorst saying that he is campaigning city-wide; that he has connections in Brighton and in African American neighborhoods. Lankhorst says that he is also concentrating on Ward 16 and West Roxbury; that he needs all of his supporters in the "non-voting" neighborhoods to get out to the polls. Lydon reports that Stephen Michaels (candidate, Boston City Council) has roots in West Roxbury, a polished image and support from White. V: Footage of Lydon interviewing Michaels. Michaels says that he was a community activist in West Roxbury; that he has family and friends in Dorchester and South Boston; that he has an endorsement in the Beacon Hill District. Michaels says that it is impossible to campaign city-wide in the primary. Lydon reports that Michaels's surname has been shortened from a longer Polish name; that the Polish clubs all know about his Polish background. 1:20:41: Lydon reports on Press Day at the Boston Celtics' practice court in Brookline. V: Shots of Celtics' players shooting baskets while the press stands around the court; of Robert Parish (player, Boston Celtics). Footage of Ernie DiGregorio (basketball player) talking to Lydon about Channel 2. Shot of Larry Bird (player, Boston Celtics) talking to a reporter. Lydon reports that DiGregorio was a star at Providence College; that DiGregorio is trying out for a spot on the Celtics' team. V: Footage of DiGregorio saying that he will make the team if he is good enough; that he feels no pressure. Footage of Nate "Tiny" Archibald (player, Boston Celtics) saying that DiGregorio will have to learn how to run the plays out on the court. Lydon reports that DiGregorio will have to compete with Archibald for playing time. Lydon jokes about being taller than Archibald. He humorously speculates about his potential for a career in basketball. 1:22:28: Lydon reports that eighteen candidates are running for nine seats on the Boston City Council; that the candidates have been campaigning across the city. V: Shots of Raymond Flynn (candidate, Boston City Council) walking to church with his family; of Lydon interviewing Maura Hennigan (candidate, Boston City Council) in front of the Park Plaza Hotel; of a campaign sign for Charles Yancey; of Lydon interviewing James Kelly (candidate, Boston City Council) in South Boston. Lydon says that the candidates have reported apathy and anger among the voters. V: Footage of Craig Lankhorst (Boston City Council candidate) saying that city residents who have been affected by cuts in the city budget and city services are upset; that residents who have been unaffected by cuts seem to be cynical and apathetic. Footage of Hennigan saying that voters talk about wanting change, but vote for the same candidates over and over. Footage of Kelly saying that voters feel like the City Council has no influence; that Kevin White (Mayor, City of Boston) holds all of the power. Footage of David Scondras (Boston City Council candidate) saying that voters are frustrated; that they do not understand where the city's money is going. Lydon says that the City Council elections have been overshadowed by controversy between the White and the state over the Tregor Bill. V: Footage of Charles Yancey (Boston City Council candidate) with campaign signs; of a Boston Fire Department station. Lydon says that City Council candidates have ignored the mayor's warning of a money crisis; that the candidates are campaigning for better services to city residents. V: Footage of Scondras saying that the city has not collected $60 million in back taxes; that the Tregor Bill exists to pay off a few wealthy interests who can be put off; that the city has not been managed efficiently. Scondras says that emergency money marked for city services must be used for those services. Footage of Kelly saying that White has a history of hiding the true financial figures; that he is not sure if there is a fiscal crisis. Footage of Hennigan saying that the voters have confused the Tregor Bill and Proposition 2 1/2; that the city is facing a fiscal crisis. Footage of Yancey saying that the city is facing a budget crunch due to Proposition 2 1/2; that some of the cuts in services were not necessary; that there is excess spending elsewhere in the administration. Lydon reports that Ed McNamara (candidate, Boston City Council) is a former FBI employee and former police commissioner. V: Footage of McNamara campaigning outside of a Roche Brothers' supermarket. He says that the city is faced by a cash shortage; that the city is not faced with a fiscal crisis. Lydon reports that none of the six incumbent City Councillors support White; that City Council resistance to White's policies will continue no matter who is elected. V: Shots of City Council members in the City Council chambers. Footage of McNamara saying that the voters' mandate is "anti-administration." Footage of Hennigan saying that voters want police officers and fire fighters back on the street; that voters want the City Council to make Proposition 2 1/2 work; that voters want the council to stand up to the mayor on issues instead of politics. Footage of Michael McCormack (candidate, Boston City Council) saying that voters want city services restored; that voters want the council to control the mayor's spending. Footage of Kelly saying that voters want the City Council to work with the mayor when he is right and oppose the mayor when he is wrong. Kelly notes that the mayor is rarely right. 1:27:25: Christopher Lydon interviews Donald Woods (South African anti-apartheid activist). Woods talks about the US veto of the United Nations condemnation the South African invasion of Angola. Woods says that the US veto encourages the white minority to believe that the US condones their actions; that the US veto allows the Soviet Union to pose as a friend of the black South Africans. Woods says that it is possible to avoid a civil war in South Africa only if western governments put pressure on the white minority. Woods says that the white minority must negotiate with black South Africans to allow the drafting of a democratic constitution. Lydon asks Woods about parallels between South Africa and Northern Ireland. Woods says that Northern Ireland and South Africa are similar in the tactics used by the minority to control the majority. Woods says that there will be no peace in Ireland until the British pull out of the country. Lydon comments that the minority in both countries are well armed and resistant to pressure. Woods says that there are "myths" surrounding the minorities in both countries; that Ian Paisley (leader of the Democratic Unionist Party of Ireland) may be full of "hot air;" that the Protestants in Northern Ireland must realize that they are Irish and must learn to live in Ireland; that South African whites must realize that they live on a black continent.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/01/1981
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: David Boeri reports that the referendum question on the creation of Mandela, Massachusetts, was soundly defeated in the 1986 elections. Supporters of incorporation of a new city from the Greater Roxbury neighborhood are raising the issue again. Community leaders gathered at a press conference in support of the issue. Those present included Andrew Jones (Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project), Chuck Turner (teacher), and Byron Rushing (State Representative). Jones and Rushing speak out in favor of Mandela. They criticize the city of Boston for not dealing effectively with problems in the Roxbury neighborhood. Boeri reports that the Roxbury neighborhood is suffering from an epidemic of violence and drug-related crime. He notes that Mandela supporters believe that crime could be fought more effectively if Roxbury were an independent city. Interviews with Mandela supporters Sadiki Kambon and Donald Madrey talking about the problems in the neighborhood. City Councilor Bruce Bolling talks about street violence. Footage of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) and Ray Flynn at a press conference.
1:00:09: Visual: Footage of Andrew Jones (Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project) at a press conference. Supporters stand behind him. Jones says that the time has come to "free Mandela, Massachusetts." Shot of Mandela supporters with Jones including Chuck Turner (teacher). David Boeri reports that the referendum question on Mandela, Massachusetts was overwhelmingly rejected by voters in the 1986 elections. Boeri notes that Mandela supporters are raising the question again. V: Footage of Byron Rushing (State Representative) at the press conference. Rushing asks if it is better to be a poor neighborhood in a rich city, or a poor city in a rich state. Boeri reports that little has changed in Boston's African American neighborhoods since 1986; that Mandela supporters can exploit the fact that little has changed in their favor. Boeri notes that Roxbury may be worse off than it was in 1986. V: Shot of white police officers at a crime scene. Roxbury residents stand behind police cordons. A pool of blood appears on the street. Footage of Sadiki Kambon (Mandela initiative supporter) saying that Roxbury continues to suffer from high unemployment, poor housing, an increase in the infant mortality rate, and a high drop-out rate from schools. Shot of two white police officers patrolling a residential street in Roxbury. Boeri reports that drug-related crime and violence have created a crisis in the community. V: Shot of a Boston Herald newspaper article featuring a photo of Darlene Tiffany Moore (Roxbury resident and shooting victim). Footage of Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) speaking to the press on August 22, 1988. Bolling says that there is open warfare going on in the district. Footage of Donald Madrey (Roxbury resident and Mandela initiative supporter) saying that Roxbury residents are living in fear from crime. Madrey says that it seems like all of the drugs in the state of Massachusetts are being dropped in Roxbury. Shot of African American residents crossing Washington street underneath elevated train tracks in Roxbury. Boeri reports that supporters of the Mandela initiative say that crime could be fought more effectively if Roxbury were an independent city. V: Shot of a group of African American men outsde of Joe's sub shop on Washington Street in Roxbury. Footage of Jones at the press conference saying that an independent city has its own police force which can set its own priorities. Jones says that the Boston Police Department is corrupt; that an independent police department could establish a better relationship with the community. Footage of Rushing saying that officers of the Mandela Police Department would live in the city; that the police officers would be living on the streets where crime takes place. Boeri notes that Boston city officials have declared war on drugs and crime in Roxbury. V: Shot of William Celester (Deputy Superintendent, Boston Police Department) speaking at a press conference. Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) stands at his side. Shot of two white police officers stopping an African American man in order to search him. Footage of Rushing at the press conference. Rushing says that the city has not responded to questions about why they have not applied for federal funds for anti-drug campaigns in the city.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/24/1988
Description: Marcus Jones reports that the Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project (GRIP) has put forth a plan to create a new city from Boston's minority neighborhoods. Jones notes that the new municipality would be named Mandela, in honor of jailed South African leader Nelson Mandela. Jones reports that African American community leaders are divided in their support for the referendum question on Mandela, Massachusetts. Jones adds that the referendum question will be on the ballot in the fall. Jones' report includes footage from a press conference in front of the Massachusetts State House with Andrew Jones (GRIP), Byron Rushing (State Representative) and Royal Bolling, Jr. (Mandela supporter). Rushing and Jones speak out in favor of Mandela. Jones report also includes footage of Royal Bolling, Sr. (state senator) speaking out against Mandela. Jones reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) is opposed to the creation of Mandela. Jones speculates about the probable boundaries of the proposed city. Jones interviews people on the street about their support of Mandela. Jones' report includes footage of the elevated train tracks along Washington Street in Roxbury. A rap song about Mandela, Massachusetts accompanies parts of the story.
1:00:35: Visual: Shots of a group of African-American residents standing at the side of a street; of an orange line train passing on the elevated tracks along Washington Street. Audio of a rap song promoting Mandela, Massachusetts. Marcus Jones reports that leaders of Boston's African American and Latino communities are promoting the idea of Mandela, Massachusetts; that community leaders hope the referendum question on Mandela, Massachusetts will win votes on the ballot in the fall. V: Shot of Andrew Jones (Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project) Byron Rushing (State Representative) and Royal Bolling, Jr. (Mandela supporter) at a press conference outside of the Massachusetts State House. Shot of a cameraman at the press conference. Footage of Young speaking at the press conference. Young says that the referendum question will allow voters in certain ward and precincts to consider the formation of an independent city. Jones reports that the plan has been put forth by the Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project (GRIP); that the plan would carve a new municipality out of the neighborhoods of Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, Jamaica Plain, the South End, and Columbia Point. Jones reports that the new city would be named in honor of jailed South African leader Nelson Mandela. Jones notes that many developers consider these neighborhoods to be the next frontier of development in Boston. V: Shots of neighborhoods within the limits of the proposed city. Shot of a newspaper article with a headline reading, "Black effort to secede from Boston." Jones stands on the median strip of Massachusetts Avenue in Boston. The Boston skyline is visible behind him. Jones reports that no formal boundary lines have yet been drawn. Jones speculates that one of the bridges on Massachusetts Avenue is a likely boundary line. Jones notes that Boston is on one side, along with the Massachusetts General Hospital, the Prudential building and the Boston Public Library. Jones notes that Mandela would lie on the other side of the bridge; that Mandela would include Boston City Hospital, the Orange Line and Franklin Park. V: Shots of Massachusetts Avenue in both directions. Shot of Washington Street in Roxbury. The elevated train tracks are visible. Shot of Boston City Hall. Audio of a rap song promoting Mandela, Massachusetts. Jones reports that Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) is opposed to the plan. Jones notes that some African American community leaders are opposed to the plan because they think that minorities are on the verge of gaining some political clout in the city of Boston. V: Shot of Flynn. Footage of Royal Bolling, Sr. (State Senator) being interviewed. Bolling says that people of color should not settle for a piece of the pie when the whole pie is within reach. Footage of Byron Rushing (State Representative) at the press conference in front of the State House. Rushing says that there are a few African Americans who lie to blame everything on city hall; that those people are in fact blaming their problems on white people. Rushing says that those people will not be able to continue blaming white people in Mandela. Shot of a political cartoon about Mandela. Audio of the rap song plays in the background. Footage of an African American man being interviewed on the street. The man says that the neighborhoods are interwoven into the fabric of the city of Boston; that the secession movement could be counterproductive. Footage of another African American man being interviewed while in his car. The man says that Mandela is a terrible idea. Footage of an African American woman being interviewed. The woman says that she would vote in favor of Mandela. Jones reports that the referendum question is still only a possiblility. Jones notes that petition signatures must be approved; that voting boundaries need to be established. V: Shot of an orange line train riding along the elevated tracks on Washington Street. Shot of a map of the districts within Mandela. Shots of a group of African Americans standing on a street corner. Audio of the rap song promoting Mandela, Massachusetts plays in the background.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 07/03/1986
Description: Marcus Jones reports on a referendum question concerning the incorporation of a new city made up of Boston's minority neighborhoods, which would be called Mandela, Massachusetts. Interview with Andrew Jones of the Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project about the proposal. Jones reports on the local and national controversy generated by the referendum question. Footage from a press conference with Mandela supporters and officials from East Palo Alto, California. Jones' report also features footage from an episode of the Phil Donahue Show. African American community leaders Andrew Jones, Mel King, Bruce Bolling, and Charles Stith debate the question with Donahue. Jones reports that the referendum is not expected to pass. Chuck Turner, a teacher, and Nathan Allen, the Executive Director of Lena Park Community Development, debate the question at tan Urban League Forum.
1:00:07: Visual: Shot of the referendum question concerning the incorporation of Mandela, Massachusetts on the 1986 election ballot. Marcus Jones reports that the referendum question on Mandela, Massachusetts has generated much publicity. V: Footage of Andrew Jones (Greater Roxbury Incorporation Project) saying that minority neighborhoods have a "colonial relationship with the city of Boston;" that the city of Boston has treated minority residents like "second-class citizens." Jones explains that the ballot question asks whether minority neighborhoods should break ties with the city of Boston in order to incorporate a new city. V: Shot of African American residents crossing under the elevated train tracks on Washington Street; of a map of the proposed border of the new city. Jones notes that the new city would encompass Roxbury, Mattapan, and parts of Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, the Fenway, South End and Columbia Point; that proposal supporters have chosen Mandela as the name for the new city. V: Shots of young African American men standing in front of Joe's Sub Shop; of a newspaper article with a headline reading, "Flynn says Roxbury secession would halt progress." The article includes a photo of Ray Flynn (Mayor of Boston) with Reverend Michael Thomas (Charles Street African Methodist Episcopal Church). Jones reports that Flynn (Mayor of Boston) is urging residents to vote against the proposal; that supporters of the proposal have brought in officials from East Palo Alto, California. Jones notes that East Palo Alto was formed by seceding from Palo Alto. V: Shot of proposal supporters at a press conference with officials from East Palo Alto. Campaign signs supporting the proposal read, "Vote yes on question 9. Land control, A new city. Mandela, Mass." Jones notes that the referendum is getting national exposure; that Phil Donahue (talk show host) broadcast his show live from WCVB today. V: Shot of the front page of The New York Times; of an article in The New York Times. Footage of the Phil Donahue Show (national TV talk show) from October 30, 1986. Donahue challenges supporters of the proposal, saying that the racial problems will worsen if minority neighborhoods secede from the city. 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 the issue behind the proposal is land control, not race. Bolling says that African American leaders and other leaders are poised to take control of city government; that the new leaders need to take advantage of the opportunity to bring the city of Boston together. Jones reports that African American community leaders debated the question at a Urban League Forum. V: Footage of Chuck Turner (teacher and community activist) saying that a victory for the referendum will force the Flynn administration to "open the books of the city." Turner talks about the large amount of land to be developed in minority neighborhoods. Footage of Nathan Allen (Executive Director, Lena Park Community Development) saying that the proposal for a new city is not financially feasible; that the new city would be incorporated with a deficit of $100 million; that community residents would be jeopordized by a large deficit. Jones stands at the back of the Urban League Forum. Jones reports that 71% of voters oppose the referendum, according to a poll.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/30/1986