Description: Christy George reports that Jesse Jackson came to Boston to support the strike by employees of New England Telephone. Jackson addresses the strikers at City Hall Plaza. Management and employees cannot agree on who should pay for workers' health benefits. Interview with New England Telephone spokesman Peter Cronin, who says that the union agreed to share health care costs in 1986. George reports that employees accuse management of staging a "take-back." Jan Pierce of Communication Workers of America attends the rally on City Hall Plaza. Pierce rips up a phone bill and urges the workers not to pay their bills until the strike is over. The union is asking customers to stall payment on their phone bills until the strike is over. National unions are backing the Nynex strikers. Striking workers demonstrate outside of the New England Telephone building. The strikers urge a woman not to pay her phone bill.
1:00:14: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (leader, Rainbow Coalition) addressing the striking employees of Nynex at City Hall Plaza. Jackson wears a baseball cap and a denim jacket. Jackson says that working people must take back America. Shots of striking workers waving signs and applauding for Jackson. Christy George reports that Jackson came to Boston to support the strike by employees of New England Telephone. V: Footage of Jackson saying that the workers need a health plan, not a "stale plan." The crowd applauds for Jackson and repeats his chants. Shots of the striking workers. Shots of hundreds of people assembled on City Hall Plaza. George reports that the telephone company and the workers do not agree on who should pay for the workers' health benefits. George reports that Nynex maintains that the union agreed to share the rising cost of health benefits. V: Footage of Peter Cronin (Spokesman, New England Telephone) saying that the union agreed in 1986 to share costs if the price of health benefits reached a certain level in 1988. Cronin says that the cost of health benefits has reached the level at which employees are expected to share costs or to take a deductible. George reports that employees say that Nynex is involved in a "take-back." George notes that the union says that it is fighting for all unions. George adds that today's rally included striking employees from Eastern Airlines and the United Mine Workers. V: Shots of striking workers at City Hall Plaza. Shots of uniformed pilots standing at the front of the rally. George reports that Jackson preached solidarity; that Jackson called on the workers to fight against the anti-labor policies of Ronald Reagan (former US president) and George Bush (US President). V: Footage of Jackson addressing the striking workers. Jackson encourages the workers to vote. He urges them to vote for important issues like wages, health care, education, and justice. Shot of a sign reading, "I won't pay my phone bill until the Nynex strike is over." George reports that the rally kicked off a new strategy by the union. V: Footage of Jan Pierce (Vice-President, Communication Workers of America) addressing the rally. Pierce rips up a phone bill and tosses the pieces into the air. Pierce urges the workers not to pay their phone bills until the strike is over. The workers cheer. Footage of Cronin saying that a customer should pay his or her bill if a service is provided. Cronin says that Nynex customers are reasonable; that Nynex customers will pay their bills. George reports that the union is actually asking customers to stall payments or to pay the minimum amount to keep their phone connected. V: Shot of a Boston Police cruiser. The cruiser has a sign supporting the strike on its window. Footage of strikers outside of the New England Telephone building on Franklin Street. Police officers are posted at the entrance to the building. Striking workers tell a female customer not to pay her phone bill. The workers tell the woman that her phone will not be disconnected because there are no workers to disconnect the phones. The woman walks away without paying her bill. The workers applaud. George stands in front of the New England Telephone building. George reports that labor unions have been losing ground in the US; that national unions are putting a lot of effort into the Nynex strike. George notes that the AFL-CIO is behind the strategy of asking customers to delay payment of their phone bills. George adds that the AFL-CIO represents a lot of people. V: Shots of the striking workers in front of the Nynex building. The workers chant, "Don't pay your bills." Shots of individual workers; of the exterior of the New England Telephone building. George reports that the AFL-CIO is throwing its weight behind this strike; that a win for labor would reverse a series of defeats. George notes that all unions will lose ground if the telephone company wins this strike. V: Shots of the striking workers.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/15/1989
Description: David Boeri reports that Jesse Jackson will travel to Iraq to interview Saddam Hussein for the Jesse Jackson Show. Previously, Jackson has met with both the Iraqi ambassador and Prince Turki bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, the brother of King Faad. Prince Aziz considers Jackson's trip to be a diplomatic mission to cool hostilities between Iraq and the United States. Boeri's report includes footage of Prince Aziz and his entourage. Interview with Mustafa Aziz, an advisor to Prince Aziz, who says that Jackson is well regarded in the Middle East. Boeri notes that George Bush does not support Jackson's trip. Jackson traveled to Syria in 1984 to secure the release of US Navy pilot Robert Goodman, Jr.. Footage from a press conference with Goodman and Jackson and footage of Ronald Reagan, who didn't like Jackson's 1984 trip. Many suspect Jackson of using guise of a journalist carry out a diplomatic mission to Iraq. Boeri's report features footage from the Jesse Jackson Show.
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) from the Jesse Jackson Show on October 5, 1989. Jackson talks about his goal of discussing a broad range of ideas and viewpoints on his show. David Boeri reports that Jackson has found controversial ideas to discuss on his show. Boeri reports that Saddam Hussein (leader of Iraq) will be a guest star on Jackson's show; that Jackson's producers hope to be in Baghdad by the weekend. Boeri notes that Jackson's show will be syndicated. V: Shot of Hussein speaking on a telephone; of Hussein exiting a vehicle and being greeted by a few soldiers. Shot of an Iraqi military soldier in a bunker; of Iraqi military soldiers standing at attention. Footage of Jackson in Syria in January of 1984. Jackson sits beside Lieutenant Robert Goodman, Jr. (US Navy pilot) at a press conference. Jackson expresses gratitude for religious leaders and people who prayed and fasted for Goodman's release. Boeri reports that Jackson visited Syria in 1984; that Jackson went on a mission to free a US Navy pilot shot down by the Syrians. V: Footage of Jackson greeting an official in January of 1984. Footage of Goodman at the press conference with Jackson. Goodman says that he is happy to be going home; that Jackson is respected in the Middle East. Boeri reports that George Bush (US President) has not commented publicly on Jackson's trip to Iraq. Boeri reports that Ronald Reagan (former US President) did not appreciate Jackson's efforts in Syria in 1984; that Reagan did not return Jackson's pre-trip phone calls. V: Shot of Reagan speaking at a press conference during his presidency. Boeri reports that permission for Jackson's upcoming trip to Iraq was granted after a meeting with the Iraqi ambassador. Boeri reports that Jackson has been involved in a round of meetings; that Jackson recently traveled to Boston to meet Prince Turki bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia (brother of King Faad of Saudi Arabia). V: Shot of Jackson speaking. Footage of Prince Aziz and his entourage entering a luncheon room. Aziz greets US officials and members of the press, including Boeri. Boeri reports that Prince Aziz is fifth in the line of succession to the Saudi throne; that Aziz is a former deputy defense minister; that Aziz has been staying at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge. Boeri notes that Dr. Mustafa Aziz (advisor to Prince Aziz) believes that Jackson's upcoming trip to Iraq may be the last chance for a peaceful solution. V: Footage of Dr. Mustafa Aziz being interviewed by Boeri. Mustafa Aziz says that Jackson is seen in the Middle East as an honest politician and a civil rights champion. Boeri reports that Prince Aziz considers Jackson's trip to be a diplomatic mission instead of a journalistic mission. Boeri notes that Prince Aziz considers violent hostilities to be imminent. V: Footage of Mustafa Aziz being interviewed by Boeri. Mustafa Aziz says that the situation is tense and explosive. Boeri stands in front of the Charles Street Hotel. Boeri reports that the Bush administration told Jackson that they do not want him to go to Iraq; that the Bush administration said that they would not stop Jackson; that the Bush administration wished Jackson good luck. Boeri reports that Jackson's producers see the trip as an opportunity for Jackson to prove himself as a world-class journalist with international connections. Boeri notes that many suspect Jackson of taking cover as a journalist while on diplomatic mission to Baghdad. Boeri reports that Prince Aziz has installed a satellite on the roof of the Charles Hotel; that Prince Aziz will be watching Jackson's broadcast from Baghdad.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/23/1990
Description: Meg Vaillancourt reports that Jesse Jackson visited Harvard Law School to join student protests over the school's minority hiring practices. Vaillancourt notes that Jackson supports Derrick Bell (Professor, Harvard Law School), who has announced that he will leave his post to protest the school's poor affirmative action record. Derrick Bell is Harvard's first African-American tenured professor. Vaillancourt reports that there are only five tenured female professors and three tenured African American male professors out of sixty-one tenured professors at the school. Vaillancourt's report includes footage of Jackson addressing students at the school. Barack Obama is seen among students in the background. Jackson shakes hands with Bell and condemns the school's affirmative action record. Vaillancourt notes that the school administration has refused Jackson's offer to act as a mediator on the issue. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson accused Harvard Law School of institutional racism and sexism. She adds that Robert Clark (Dean, Harvard Law School) issued a statement defending the school's hiring practices. Vaillancourt's report features footage of Bell at a student demonstration at Harvard Law School in April 1990 and footage of Jackson at a student demonstration. This tape includes additional footage of Jackson addressing demonstrators at Harvard Law School.
1:00:05: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) speaking at Harvard Law School. Jackson says that affirmative action is a response to years of denial by law. Shots of the audience listening to Jackson in a lecture hall at the school. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Jackson's visit to Harvard Law School attracted national attention to the controversy over the school's minority hiring practices. V: Footage of Jackson addressing the audience. Jackson says that it is an error and an insult to say that there is no African American woman qualified to be a tenured professor at Harvard Law School. Shots of the audience. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson visited the school to support Derrick Bell (Professor, Harvard Law School). Vaillancourt notes that Bell was the first African American to be granted tenure at Harvard Law School. Vaillancourt reports that Bell has announced that he will leave his post to protest the school's poor affirmative action record. V: Shot of Jackson and Bell shaking hands in the conference hall. Footage from April 24, 1990 of Bell at a demonstration on the campus of Harvard Law School. Bell addresses student demonstrators. Bell says that he he has urged students to take risks to further their beliefs; that he must now do the same. Shot of demonstrators holding a sign reading, "Where are our tenured black women professors?" Vaillancourt reports that Bell will take a leave of absence until the school adds a woman of color to the faculty. Vaillancourt notes that there are 61 tenured professors at the school; that three of those professors are African American; that the African American professors are all male. Vaillancourt reports that half of the students at Harvard Law School are women; that there are only five tenured female professors; that there are no Latino or Asian law professors at the school. V: Shots of Bell and Jackson entering the lecture hall; of students standing and applauding for Bell and Jackson. Shots of white and African American female students in the audience. Shot of Jackson, Bell and a white woman raising linked arms at the front of the lecture hall. The students applaud. Vaillancourt reports that the school seems ready to accept Bell's departure; that Robert Clark (Dean of Harvard Law School) declined to speak on camera about the school's hiring practices. Vaillancourt reports that Clark issued a statement in which he defended the slow pace of change at Harvard Law School. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson has accused Harvard of institutional racism and sexism. V: Shot of students demonstrators on the Harvard Law School campus on April 24, 1990. Footage of Jackson addressing student demonstrators outside on the campus of Harvard Law School. Student supporters stand behind him. Jackson says that Harvard should negotiate with Bell and the student demonstrators. The demonstrators applaud Jackson. Vaillancourt stands outside of a building on the Harvard Law School campus. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson met briefly with Clark today; that the school has refused Jackson's offer to act as a mediator on the issue of faculty diversity. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson called for a reexamination of race relations in the US during his speech at Harvard Law School. V: Footage of Jackson addressing an audience in a lecture hall at Harvard Law School. Jackson says that most people in the world are not white nor are they males. Jackson says that these people cannot wait for some archaic standard to allow them to be appraised as worthy by white males. Shots of students in the audience. Shot of Jackson entering a room. Jackson shakes hands and embraces Bell. Jackson shakes hands with other Harvard Law School professors and officials. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson has called for a new Kerner Commission; that the Kerner Commission issued a study twenty years ago which concluded that white America and black America were separate and unequal. Vaillancourt reports that Jackson praised Bell for his courage; that Jackson called on Harvard Law School faculty to support Bell. V: Footage of Jackson addressing an audience in the lecture hall. Jackson talks about the sacrifices made by Rosa Parks (civil rights activist) and Martin Luther King (civil rights leader). Jackson says that Bell is taking a principled stand; that Bell is drawing attention to the problem of racism and sexism at Harvard. Shots of Bell at a demonstration on the Harvard Law School campus on April 24, 1990. Shots of Bell addressing a demonstration outside of a building on the Harvard Law School campus today. Jackson stands beside Bell. Student demonstrators stand behind them. The demonstrators raise their linked arms. A demonstrator holds a sign reading, "diversity now." Vaillancourt reports that faculty were scheduled to vote today on a resolution encouraging diversity. Vaillancourt notes that Harvard officials say that a personal matter forced the dean to end the meeting before the resolution came to a vote. Vaillancourt notes that the vote was not rescheduled.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/09/1990
Description: Christy George reports that Jesse Jackson spoke about leadership in a speech at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. George reports that Jackson is very active in this non-election year. George's report includes footage of Jackson walking a picket line with striking Eastern Airline employees and footage of Jackson visiting an Armenian earthquake zone. George talks about Jackson's activities since the 1988 election. George's report also features footage from Jackson's speech at Harvard. Jackson talks about voter cynicism in the 1988 election and the qualities of a good leader. Jackson says that the US must invest in itself in order to flourish. He explains a metaphorical term: "honeybee sense." George's report also includes footage from Jackson's 1988 presidential campaign. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Lee Atwater visits Massachusetts for a Republican Party fundraiser
1:00:07: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) as he enters an auditorium at the John F. Kennedy School of Goverment at Harvard University. The audience applauds for Jackson. Shot of a man in the crowd. Footage of Jackson addressing the audience. Jackson jokes about his speech being televised on C-Span. Jackson waves to his mother. Christy George reports that Jackson talked about the scarcity of good leaders in American politics during his speech at the Kennedy School of Government. V: Footage of Jackson delivering his speech. Jackson says that public cynicism won more voters than Bush did in the 1988 campaign. Jackson notes that 50% of the eligible voters did not vote; that 70% of voters expressed a desire for a different choice. Jackson says that Bush's campaign won while the country lost. Footage of Jackson at a campaign rally in New Hampshire on February 16, 1988. The crowd chants, "Win, Jesse, Win." George notes that Jackson travels the country regularly in non-election years. V: Shots of Jackson doing a television interview; of Jackson picketing with striking Eastern Airline employees. George reports that Jackson has walked with striking Eastern Airline employees across the nation; that Jackson turned a tour of an Armenian earthquake zone into a Soviet-American people's summit. V: Shot of a Soviet news anchor reading the news; of Jackson kissing a baby in Armenia. Footage of Jackson looking out of a window while riding on a bus in Armenia. Jackson speaks to the media, saying that human beings must care for one another. Footage of Jackson at a 1988 campaign rally. George calls Jackson a "perpetual candidate" and a "peripatetic preacher." V: Footage of Jackson speaking at the Kennedy School. Jackson says that he is a "liberal" who fights for change. Jackson says that pollsters and pundits are looking for a manufactured candidate. Jackson says that great leaders do not follow opinion polls; that great leaders mold public opinion. Jackson says that John F. Kennedy (former US President) was not following opinion polls when he reached out to Martin Luther King, Jr. (civil rights leader). Jackson says that Kennedy's actions were based on courage and principles. Jackson says that the US needs bold leadership to deal with the nation's "structural crisis." Jackson talks about "honeybee sense." Jackson says that honeybees know to drop pollen when they pick up nectar; that honeybees know the importance of keeping the flowers alive. Jackson says that the US needs to invest in itself in order to stay alive and flourish. The crowd rises to its feet and applauds for Jackson.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/25/1989
Description: Marcus Jones reports that anti-war activists protested across the nation to rally public opinion against the use of force in the Persian Gulf, including in downtown Boston. Jesse Jackson visited MIT to speak out against going to war in the Middle East on the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Jones notes that the MIT Initiative for Peace in the Middle East brought Jackson to the campus. Jackson says that the US must not rush to war on January 15. Interviews with MIT graduate students Corrie Lathan and Steve Penn, who oppose the war. Interview with Jesse Jackson, who says that the US and Iraq should negotiate because war is inevitable if talking is impossible. Jones' report includes footage from Inside Edition of Jackson in Iraq. Following the edited story is additional b-roll of anti-war demonstrations and of Jackson at MIT talking about Martin Luther King, Jr.
1:00:36: Visual: Footage of anti-war protesters on Winter Street in downtown Boston. The protesters carry signs protesting the Gulf War. They chant together, "We remember Vietnam. We won't go." Shot of two police officers standing in front of a building. Marcus Jones reports that a group of anti-war protesters demonstrated outside of the Army recruiting headquarters in Boston. V: Shot of a protesters carrying a sign reading, "U.S. Troops out of the Gulf." The protesters chant, "We won't fight for Texaco." Shot of a protester handing out leaflets. Jones reports that anti-war activists took to the streets across the country today; that the protesters are trying to rally public opinion against the use of force in the Persian Gulf. V: Shot of an older white woman wearing a sign around her neck. The sign reads, "Bring our troops home." Shot of two white children standing among the protesters. Jones reports that Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) visited MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) tonight; that the members of the MIT Initiative for Peace in the Middle East brought Jackson to the campus. Jones reports that Jackson spoke out against going to war in the Middle East on the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. (civil rights activist). V: Shots of Jackson greeting an MIT student; of Jackson greeting students as he walks to the podium. Shots of students in the audience. Footage of Jackson addressing the students. Jackson says that the US must not rush to war on January 15. Jackson says that efforts toward peace must be made on King's birthday. Footage of Corrie Lathan (MIT graduate student) being interviewed. Lathan says that she is opposed to the war; that the situation should be resolved in a non-violent manner. Footage of Steve Penn (MIT graduate student) being interviewed by Jones. Penn says that decision-makers in the US understand pressure; that the voice of the people must speak out against the war. Jones reports that Jackson's call for restraint may reflect a change in his thinking. Jones notes that Jackson met with Saddam Hussein (Iraqi leader) last year. Jones reports that Jackson said last year that war would be inevitable if talking proved impossible. V: Footage from Inside Edition of Jackson entering a building in Iraq; of Jackson speaking to Hussein. Jones questions whether Jackson has changed his position. V: Footage of Jackson speaking at MIT. Jones asks Jackson if he has changed his position. Jackson says that he has kept the same position. Jackson says that war is inevitable if talking is impossible. Jackson says that the US and Iraq should "talk"; that the two countries must choose negotiation over confrontation. The audience applauds for Jackson as he walks away from the podium.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/14/1991
Description: John Hashimoto reports that Jesse Jackson visited Madison Park High School to talk to students. Hashimoto's report includes footage of Jackson's address to students in the school gymnasium. The students cheer enthusiastically as he approaches the podium. Jackson tells students that they must live with the consequences of their actions. He tells them that they can become whatever they want to be. He reprimands one student for talking during his speech. Jackson urges students to register to vote. He directs those who are not registered to a voter registration table in the gymnasium. Hashimoto reports on speculation that Jackson will run for the presidency in 1992. Hashimoto notes that Jackson could be elected senator if Washington DC becomes a state. Hashimoto reports that Jackson also spoke at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Hashimoto notes that Jackson addressed national and political issues in his address at UMass. Hashimoto's report features footage of Jackson's address at UMass. Hashimoto reports that Jackson is working to keep himself visible. Hashimoto calls Jackson a "perennial candidate" for elected office. The edited news story is followed by b-roll footage of Jackson and his entourage arriving at the high school, and the opening of the assembly including color guard and the end of the national anthem. Additional footage of Jackson's address. Byron Rishing, Bruce Bolling, and Charles Yancey sit behind Jackson during assembly. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Francis "Mickey" Roache speaks to high school students on police stop-and-search policy
1:00:04: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) holding up a child as the media photographs him. Jackson greets supporters and students at Madison Park High School in Roxbury. Shots of students in the audience. John Hashimoto reports that Jackson visited Madison Park High School to talk to students about reality, hope, and self-determination. V: Footage of Jackson addressing the students. Jackson asks students to stand if they know someone their age who is in jail because of drugs. Shots of students standing up in the audience. Footage of Jackson pointing to a student in the audience. Jackson tells the student that he will escort the student out of the auditorium if the student does not stop talking. Jackson tells the student to respect the student assembly. Footage of Jackson telling the students that they can be whatever they want to be. Jackson says that if Dan Quayle (US Vice-President) can be vice president, then the students can be whatever they want to be. The students applaud. Shots of students in the audience. Footage of Jackson telling the students that they must live with the consequences of their actions. Shots of the students rising to their feet to applaud for Jackson. Hashimoto reports that Jackson ended his talk by urging the students to vote. V: Footage of Jackson addressing the students. Jackson asks the students who are eligible to vote but who are not registered to come down to the voter registration table. Shots of students walking toward the table; of students registering to vote at the table. Hashimoto reports that many are wondering if Jackson will run for president in 1992. V: Footage of Jackson addressing the students. Jackson says that he will not talk about 1992. Jackson says that his priorities are to organize workers and to register voters. Shots of students lined up to register to vote. Hashimoto reports that Jackson sounds like a candidate; that Jackson is one of the backers of a bill to make Washington DC a state unto itself. Hashimoto notes that Washington DC would need 2 senators if it became a state; that Jackson could be a candidate for one of those two positions. V: Footage of Jackson, his entourage, and his supporters walking outside of a school building. Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) walks with Jackson. Shot of Jackson entering a gymnasium at University of Massachusetts in Boston to the roaring applause of students. Jackson shakes hands with students near the podium. Shots of the audience as they applaud. Hashimoto reports that Jackson spoke at UMass Boston today; that he addressed national and political issues. V: Footage of Jackson speaking at UMass Boston. Jackson talks about the need to rebuild small towns in the US. Shots of Jackson addressing the audience at UMass Boston. Hashimoto reports that Jackson is working to keep himself visible. Hashimoto notes that Jackson's dominance as the nation's most visible African American leader is threatened by moderate politicians like Douglas Wilder (Governor of Virginia). V: Shot of Wilder exiting a voting booth. Hashimoto reports that Jackson will host his own television talk show in the fall. V: Shots of Jackson addressing the audience at UMass Boston. Footage of Jackson saying that it is time for mass action, mass education, mass demonstration; that it is time for the US to do the right thing. Hashimoto stands in the gymnasium at UMass Boston. Hashimoto reports that Jackson acts like a winner despite losing the Democratic nomination in 1988. Hashimoto says that many wonder if Jackson will ever become an elected official instead of a "galvanizing symbol." Hashimoto notes that Jackson is a perennial candidate for office, but has never won.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 05/08/1990
Description: Sam Fleming reports that Jesse Jackson is campaigning in New Hampshire. Some consider Jackson to be the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination, but many political observers doubt Jackson's chances of winning the nomination. Jackson addresses supporters at a campaign rally, including about his support for the gay and lesbian community. Interviews with enthusiastic Jackson supporters in New Hampshire. Jackson tells reporters that his race is not as important as his credentials. He addresses another rally on the need for national affordable health care. Interview with Joe Grandmaison the Chairman of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, who says that it would not be wise to underestimate Jackson and his campaign. This edition of the Ten O'Clock News also included the following item: Ray Flynn, Michael Dukakis, and Bruce Bolling discuss linkage between Chinatown development and Parcel 18 in Roxbury
1:00:54: Visual: Footage of Jesse Jackson (Democratic candidate for US President) getting his picture taken in front of the fall foliage in New Hampshire. Jackson walks into a rustic building. Sam Fleming reports that Jackson is trying to secure voter support in New Hampshire; that Jackson is considered to be the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination. V: Shots of Jackson shaking hands with New Hampshire voters. Shot of Jackson addressing the crowd. The crowd applauds. Fleming reports that many political observers doubt Jackson's chances of winning the nomination; that Jackson is not paying attention to the "conventional wisdom" of the political observers. V: Footage of Jackson addressing the crowd. Shots of members of the crowd. Jackson talks about speaking at last weekend's rally for gays and lesbians in Washingon D.C. Jackson says that the voices of gays and lesbians deserve to be heard. Fleming notes that Jackson is reaching out to the dispossesed. V: Footage of Jackson talking about his efforts to build a diverse coalition of supporters. Jackson says that his leadership will put the nation on a course for jobs, peace, and justice. The crowd applauds. Shots of individual audience members. Footage of an older white female voter saying that Jackson is "energizing"; of a white female voter saying that she hopes that Jackson has a chance at the nomination. Footage of an older white male voter saying that some critics are trying to create a negative image of Jackson; that Jackson is "electable." Footage of Jackson speaking to reporters. A reporter asks Jackson if an African American can win the Democratic nomination. Jackson says that the issue of his race should be left to "God"; that the issue of his credentials should be left up to the voters. Fleming notes that Jackson has been questioned about the state of his marriage. V: Footage of Jackson telling reporters that he will not speculate about rumors; that he is fighting to win the nomination. Fleming reports that Jackson opened his campaign office in Manchester, N.H. V: Footage of a crowd gathered in front of Jackson's campaign office. Shot of a white female voter holding a hand-made Jackson campaign sign. The crowd begins to chant, "We want Jesse." Jackson shakes hands with voters outside of the office. Shots of an older white man; of a young African American boy in the crowd. Jackson addresses the crowd. Jackson talks about the need for a national health care system. Jackson says that he will provide "bold leadership." Fleming notes that Jackson did well with white Democratic voters in New Hampshire in 1984. Fleming reports that one Jackson campaign supporter said that the Jackson campaign lacked an organized structure; that fundraising so far has been minimal. Fleming adds that some voters see Jackson as a candidate supported mainly by African Americans. V: Shots of Jackson addressing a crowd; of individual members of the crowd. Footage of Joe Grandmaison (Chairman, New Hampshire Democratic Party) saying that no one underestimates the strength of Jackson and his message. Footage of Jackson addressing the crowd about the need to save jobs, schools, farms, and the environment, and to "give peace a chance." The crowd chants along with Jackson and applauds for him. Shot of an elderly woman at the Jackson campaign rally.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/12/1987
Description: A Ten O'Clock News special features an interview with Jesse Jackson (Democratic candidate for US President). Christopher Lydon (WGBH), Dennis Farney (Wall Street Journal), and Ken Bode (NBC News) interview Jackson. Lydon notes that the goal of the interview is to discover how Jackson's character would shape his presidency. Jackson jokes about the psychoanalytic nature of the interview. Jackson talks about growing up in a segregated society and participating in the civil rights movement. He answers questions about his childhood. He talks about his campaign and the support he has received so far. Jackson talks about the challenges faced by young African Americans, and says that young African Americans must work twice as hard as whites in order to succeed. Jackson says that some conservative African Americans may not support his candidacy; he adds that people of all races are finding common ground in his candidacy. Jackson reviews the accomplishments of his political organization and talks about his experiences in shaping political policy during the 1960s and the 1970s. He names the politicians whom he admires. He talks about his relationship to the Democratic Party leadership and about his efforts to open up the Democratic Party to minority voters. Jackson says that he would like to establish better relations between the African American community and the Jewish community. He names the people to whom he turns for advice. Jackson says that he regrets the splintering of the civil rights movement in the 1970s. He talks about the Rainbow Coalition as a means to reunite those groups. Tape 1 of 2.
1:00:37: Visual: WGBH logo. Christopher Lydon introduces an "extended conversation" with Jesse Jackson (candidate for US President). Lydon notes that the half hour show was planned in cooperation with the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Lydon adds that the goal of the interview is to discover how Jackson's character would shape his presidency. Lydon introduces in-studio guests Dennis Farney (Wall Street Journal) and Ken Bode (NBC News). Lydon reviews biographical facts about Jackson including date of birth, education, and his career in the civil rights movement. Lydon asks Jackson which actor he would choose to portray Jesse Jackson in a movie about his life, and what Jackson would tell the actor about his character. Jackson jokes about the psychoanalytic nature of this interview. Jackson talks about growing up in a segregated society. Jackson says that he is sensitive to the needs of the poor and the disenfranchised; that he participated in the civil rights movement and has seen great changes. Jackson says that he has not grown bitter about US society because he has seen such great changes. 1:04:28: V: Farney asks Jackson about his childhood and whether he felt rejected by his father. Jackson talks about feeling a sense of rejection as a child; that he was called a "bastard." Jackson says that his athletic and academic success were his way of fighting back against those who rejected him or laughed at him. Jackson says that he has grown accustomed to adversity and to the "double standard" which exists in society. Bode asks Jackson if the US is ready for an African American president. Bode mentions that Bill Lucy (African American union leader) has said that the US is not ready. Jackson notes that he has been received warmly in New Hampshire. Jackson says that no one will know if the US is ready for an African American president until the nation is given the chance to elect one. Jackson says that an African American candidate may get support from women, Hispanics and American Indians; that many groups in society can identify with his candidacy. Jackson mentions the Rainbow Coalition. Jackson notes that he is running second or third out of eight candidates in New Hampshire. Lydon asks Jackson about his success in life and about his belief in self-reliance. Jackson says that the "triangle" of family, church, and school allowed him to grow up with a sense of confidence; that he was insulated from some of the ill effects of segregation. Jackson mentions the closeness of his family to a particular white family, despite living in a segregated society. 1:11:19: V: Lydon asks Jackson how to foster good support networks for young African Americans growing up today. Jackson says that young African Americans need to work harder than whites to succeed; that their hard work will pay off in the end; that those who work hard to succeed develop an inner strength and character. Bode notes that the Alabama Democratic Conference endorsed Walter Mondale's candidacy for US President. Bode adds that Jackson's political organization said that their endorsement of Mondale was the equivalent of "putting another bullet into the body of Martin Luther King." Jackson denies characterizing the endorsement in that manner. Jackson talks about the reluctance of the African American community to upset the status quo. Jackson says that some of the resistance to the civil rights movement came from conservative African Americans. Bode asks Jackson what percentage of the vote he expects to receive in the Alabama primary. Jackson says that he will not speculate on percentages. Jackson talks about the endorsements and support he has received. Jackson says that he has received support from white voters in the south; that whites, African Americans, and other minorities are finding common ground in his candidacy. 1:15:38: V: Farney asks why Jackson sometimes refers to himself as a "prophet" instead of a "politician." Jackson explains that his role is prophetic in that he tries to change the structure of society. Farney notes that Jackson has been criticized for a lack of administrative experience. Jackson reviews the accomplishments of his political organization. Jackson notes the limited budget under which his campaign operates. Farney asks about Jackson's political legacy. Jackson says that his candidacy has forced the Democratic Party to open up; that his candidacy has forced both political parties to understand the importance of minority voters. Lydon asks about Jackson's spiritual life. Jackson says that he tries to seek common ground between people of different religions; that certain values are held in common by all religions. Jackson says that he is committed to the poor, the elderly and the young. Lydon asks Jackson why Ralph Abernathy (African American leader) said that Jackson could be his president but not his pastor. Jackson says that he does not know why Abernathy said that. Bode comments that Jackson has not held political office, but that he has had a lot of contact with politicians. Jackson notes that he was the first African American delegate to the Democratic Party in 1962. Jackson reviews his leadership experience and his role in shaping public policy in the 1960s and 1970s. 1:20:55: V: Bode asks Jackson which politicians he admires, aside from Martin Luther King. Jackson talks about Hubert Humphrey (US Senator), Ron Dellums (US Representative), and Adam Powell (US Representative). Bode notes that Jackson has criticized Tip O'Neill (Speaker, US House of Representatives) and Lane Kirkland (President, AFL-CIO). Bode asks how Jackson will deal with the Democratic leadership. Jackson says that he will conduct business with these leaders on the basis of "mutual respect." Jackson says that the Democratic Party needs a more articulate spokesman than O'Neill; that he respects O'Neill. Jackson notes that the labor movement needs to commit itself to providing equal access to jobs for African Americans, Hispanics, and women. Lydon asks Jackson about how his candidacy is viewed by American Jews. Jackson says that he would like to establish better relations between African American and Jewish leaders. Jackson says that he regrets the conflicts between African Americans and Jews in the past; that he supports the right of Israel to exist; that he also supports the rights of Palestinians. Jackson talks about his view of the Middle Eastern conflict. Farney notes that Jimmy Carter (former US President) was elected as an "outsider." Farney asks if Jackson would be more successful than Carter in operating in politics as an "outsider." Jackson says that Carter remained on the "outside" as president; that Carter did not use the power of the presidency to its full extent. Jackson says that he disagrees with the critics who call the Carter administration a "failure." Jackson criticizes the foreign policy of Ronald Reagan (US President). 1:26:29: V: Bode asks Jackson about his advisors. Jackson says that he consults with his wife and his children. Jackson names a list of people with whom he consults including Dellums, Marion Barry (mayor of Washington D.C.), Walter Fauntroy (US Congressman), Edward Bennett Williams (attorney), Dr. Al Pitcher (University of Chicago), and Dr. Jack Mendelsohn (minister). Lydon asks Jackson to disclose any major failures or flaws in his character. Jackson says that he does not dwell on his failures, but that he has learned a lot from them. Jackson says that he regrets how the civil rights movement broke up in the 1970s; that he is trying to bring back together the groups involved in the civil rights movement through his coalition. Jackson says that he is concerned with the conflict between African Americans and American Jews. Jackson talks about the importance of communication in resolving conflict. Lydon thanks Jackson, Farney and Bode. End credits roll.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/03/1984
Description: David Boeri reports that Jesse Jackson spoke at the Massachusetts State House about the importance of access to higher education. Boeri notes that some students cannot afford higher education because of the increasing costs of higher education and federal cuts in student aid. Many supporters turned out to listen to Jackson. Jackson talks to the audience about the importance of education. Jackson addresses the media after his speech.
1:00:10: Visual: Footage of Kevin Sheehan (State Student Association of Massachusetts) talking about college students who must work forty hours per week on top of taking classes. Footage of Mike Ferrigno (State Student Association of Massachusetts) addressing a crowd at the State House about the debt incurred by many students in college. David Boeri reports that many low- and middle-income college students are incurring heavy debt in colleges; that some students can not afford to go to college. V: Shot of students walking on a campus. Boeri reports that speakers at a State House rally attacked federal cuts in federal aid to students. Boeri notes that the cuts come at a time when tuition and the cost of living are increasing; that grants are less easy to obtain. V: Shot of speakers and the audience inside the State House. Footage of Jesse Jackson (African American political leader) speaking about the importance of access to education. Boeri reports that Jackson said that universities have let the enrollment numbers fall for African American, minority, and low-income students. V: Shots of the members of the audience, including Mel King (community activist), Bill Owens (former state senator) and Shirley Owens Hicks (state representative). Footage of Jackson urging students to protest cuts in student aid. Jackson condemns the priorities of Ronald Reagan (US President). Jackson says that Reagan is "embarking on a trillion dollar misadventure in space." Jackson tells students that they need to stay sober, fight the Star Wars program and to "vote with Red Sox fever." The audience applauds as members rise to their feet. Footage of Jackson speaking to the media after his speech. Jackson uses the parable of Jesus Christ to illustrate society's obligation to cater to the needs of the poor and needy. Jackson says that many children are "locked out and living in the manger." Bruce Bolling (Boston City Council) is visible behind Jackson. Boeri reports that the State Student Association has registered over 5,000 new student voters; that the students will vote for more affordable education in November.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/17/1986
Description: Christopher Lydon interviews cultural historian Kiku Adatto (Harvard University) about Jesse Jackson as a presidential candidate. Lydon's interview with Adatto is accompanied by footage of Jackson throughout his political career. The footage illustrates Jackson's dynamic style of speaking. Adatto notes that Jackson is a religious figure in the political arena. She notes that Jackson's energy and moral fervor are more suited to a preacher than a politician. She says that Jackson's strength lies in his ability to articulate social criticism. Adatto says that many voters see Jackson as an outsider or a social critic instead of as a politician; she adds that some voters may not be able to envision him as president. Lydon's report also includes footage of Martin Luther King, Jr. (American civil rights leader) and Andrew Young (Mayor of Atlanta).
1:00:02: Christopher Lydon interviews Kiku Adatto (Harvard University) about Jesse Jackson (candidate for the Democratic nomination for US President). Adatto talks about the tradition of preachers in American history. She says that many of these preachers, including Martin Luther King (civil rights leader) and Jackson, have become political leaders. Visual: Shot of a black and white photo of Jackson on a balcony with King. Black and white footage of King giving a speech. Shot of a black and white photo of Jackson in a crowd, raising his arm in the black power salute. Adatto says that Jackson has tried to pick up the mantle of King; that Jackson has tried to be the "conscience of America" in the way that King was. V: Footage of Jackson addressing a crowd at Harvard University on April 4, 1985. Jackson talks about the evils of apartheid. Adatto says that there is a tradition in the US of the preacher staying outside of politics; that Jackson has tried to move into the political system in order to effect change. V: Footage of Jackson passing a lobby of a building. He shakes hands with African American bystanders. Jackson enters a room full of supporters. Adatto says that Jackson is concerned with equality and civil rights; that Jackson has been caught exhibiting prejudice against Jews; that Jackson was linked with Reverend Louis Farrakhan (African American Muslim leader). V: Shots of newspaper articles detailing the controversy surrounding Jackson's remarks about Jews in 1984. Adatto adds that the preacher must remain "morally sound" when entering the political arena. V: C-Span footage of Jackson addressing the Democratic Convention in 1984. Adatto says that Jackson has an "insider-outside dilemma"; that Jackson finds it difficult to make the compromises required by electoral politics. Adatto notes that Andrew Young (Mayor of Atlanta) made an easy transition into electoral politics. V: Shot of Young at a press conference in Boston in 1983. Adatto notes that Jackson has lost none of his energy or "moral fervor"; that Jackson still criticizes society from an outsider's point of view. Adatto adds that Young is an "insider." V: Shot of Young at a press conference. Adatto says that Jackson strength lies in his ability to articulate social criticism. V: C-Span footage of Jackson addressing the Democratic Convention in 1984. Shots of audience members. Adatto says that Jackson stirs the emotions of voters in his "outsider" role; that Jackson troubles many voters in his "insider" role. Adatto notes that Jackson's role as social reformer and critic undermines his strength as a presidential candidate; that many voters cannot envision Jackson as president. Adatto notes that many of the nation's great presidents have been calm and quietly strong; that some see Jackson as too much of a preacher; that Jackson's energy and moral fervor are more suited to preacher than politician. V: C-Span footage of Jackson addressing the Democratic Convention in 1984. Adatto says that some see voters as too much of an outsider, social critic or civil rights leader; that some white voters are turned off by Jackson. Adatto quotes statistics from a study which found that 23% of American voters are not ready to vote for any African American for president. V: C-Span footage of Jackson addressing the Democratic Convention in 1984. Adatto says that Jackson has the ability to stir the emotions of the American people; that he is most powerful in his role as "outsider" or critic. Adatto says that many voters are stirred by his message, but cannot envision him as president because he is an outsider. V: Footage of Jackson announcing his candidacy for president in 1988. His supporters stand behind him, cheering. Jackson promises "bold leadership."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/16/1987