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Apartheid Protest

Description: Apartheid protesters gather in front of the South African Consulate at 100 Charles River Plaza in Boston, surrounded by press. Mel King (community activist), Charles Yancey (Boston City Council) and Willard Johnson (Head, TransAfrica) demand to see Richard Blankstein (honorary consul to South Africa). Police officers bar entry to the building. Johnson announces to the media that the protesters will ask for Blankstein's resignation from his post. He adds that they will ask Blankstein's law firm to sever ties with South Africa. Johnson and the others are eventually allowed to enter the building. Several takes of reporter standup. Police, protesters and the media wait outside of the building. Themba Vilakazi (member of African National Congress) is interviewed by the media, announcing the resignation of Blankstein, and noting that Blackstein doesn't want to talk to the media. Johnson, King and Yancey exit the building. Johnson reads a statement of resignation from Blankstein, which says he is not a supporter of apartheid. Johnson announces a victory for the protesters. Johnson, King and Yancey walk over to a group of protesters on the street. Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) leads the protesters in a chant. Johnson announces the resignation of Blankstein. The crowd cheers.
1:04:34: V: Johnson tells the media that the protestors have asked for the right to meet with Blankstein; that they would like to ask Blankstein to resign from his post as honorary consul. Johnson says that the protestors are acting in the best interest of the public. Johnson says that the protestors are willing to meet with Blankstein outside of the building. Johnson says that Blankenstein must resign publicly; that his law firm must sever ties with South Africa. Johnson says that the police officer has gone inside to ask Blankstein to meet with the protestors. Johnson says that the protestors' goal is to force the resignation of Blankstein; that the protestors will focus next on other corporations with ties to South Africa. 1:06:30: V: Four protestors, including Yancey and Johnson, are let into the building. They are accompanied by Themba Vilakazi (member, African National Congress). Police officers stand guard at the entrance to the building. Protestors and the media wait on the sidewalk outside of the entrance. Tug Yourgrau reports from the sidewalk in front of the entrance. The chants of protestors are audible. Yourgrau reports that Blankstein has been honorary counsel to South Africa in Boston for two years; that Blankstein has refused to be interviewed on camera. Yourgrau reports that the protestors have promised to picket Blankstein's offices again of Friday; that a candlelight vigil has been planned on Sunday at the Boston Public Library. Yourgrau does several takes of his comments for the news story. 1:09:13: V: Police officers are lined up in front of the entrance to the building. The sidewalk is crowded with members of the media, protestors and bystanders. 1:10:13: V: Vilakazi talks to the media. Vilakazi reports that Blankenstein has signed a letter of resignation, which he will hand to the protestors. Vilakazi reports that Blankenstein has said that the actions of the protestors influenced his decision to resign. Vilakazi notes that Blankenstein has said that he does not support apartheid. 1:11:20: V: The media and protestors peer curiously into the lobby of the building. Johnson exits the building, accompanied by King and Yancey. Johnson reads a statement of resignation from Blankstein. Blankstein's statement describes his post as honorary consul. The statement denies that Blankstein is a supporter of apartheid. The statement reads that Blankstein does not wish to be made an apologist for the South African government. Johnson shows the letter to the media. Johnson says that Blankenstein's resignation is a victory for the protestors. Johnson says that the protestors will target other corporations with ties to the South African government. 1:14:02: V: Johnson, King and Yancey walk away from the building. The three men walk toward a group of protestors on the street. A large group of protestors is picketing on the sidewalk. The protestors chant, "Blankstein, resign." Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) stands on the bed of a pick-up truck, leading the chant through a bullhorn. Johnson takes the bullhorn from the man and addresses the crowd. Stith starts to cheer. King and Yancey stand on the bed of the pick-up truck with Johnson. Johnson announces Blankstein's resignation and holds up the letter. Johnson reads a portion of the statement from Blankstein. The crowd cheers as Johnson reads the statement. Shots of the crowd of protestors. The crowd chants, "Freedom, yes. Apartheid, no."
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/04/1984

Apartheid Protest

Description: A group of apartheid protesters picket the South African Consulate at 100 Charles River Plaza in Boston. Police officers stand at the door to the consulate. Willard Johnson (Head of TransAfrica) speaks to the crowd of picketers through a bullhorn. Themba Vilakazi (member of the African National Congress) addresses the crowd, condemning the South African government and criticizing Ronald Reagan for engaging in a policy of "constructive engagement" with the South African government. City Councilor Charles Yancey addresses the crowd, praising Bishop Desmond Tutu and urging the protesters to engage in acts of civil disobedience to protest apartheid. Community activist Mel King addresses the crowd, calling for the resignation of Richard Blankstein (honorary consul to South Africa). King criticizes the Reagan administration's policies in South Africa and talks about the need for large companies to divest from South Africa. Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) stands beside the speakers. Johnson expresses his support for Nelson Mandela and all those fighting apartheid in South Africa.
1:00:00: Visual: The WGBH camera crew sets up its equipment. A diverse group of anti-apartheid protestors picket the South African Consulate at 100 Charles River Plaza. More than 100 protestors carry signs and chant, "1, 2, 3, 4, let's close the consulate door." Shot of a white protest leader leading the chant with a bullhorn. 1:02:48: V: A police officer stands in front of the entrance to the building. He carries a two-way radio. Another officer stands with him. 1:03:20: V: The protestors continue to picket, chanting "Hey, hey, ho, ho, this consulate has got to go." Willard Johnson (head of TransAfrica) speaks to the crowd of picketers through a bullhorn. He urges them to keep the picket line moving. 1:04:19: V: Themba Vilakazi (member, African National Congress) speaks to the crowd about the struggle of black South Africans. Vilakazi criticizes the policies of the ruling government in South Africa. He says that the South African government in engaged in a brutal repression of the residents of black townships. Vilakazi says that the African National Congress (ANC) welcomes worldwide condemnation of the white regime. Vilakazi criticizes the policy of Ronald Reagan (US President) toward South Africa. Vilakazi condemns the Reagan administration's policy of "constructive engagement" with the ruling government. Vilakazi praises the actions of three US political leaders who encouraged an anti-apartheid sit-in at the South African embassy in Washington DC. Vilakazi encourages anti-apartheid protestors across the world. Shots of the picketers. Vilakazi talks about the ANC struggle for freedom in South Africa. Vilakazi closes his speech by saying, "We will win." The protestors chant, "We will win." 1:07:10: V: Johnson introduces Charles Yancey (Boston City Council). Johnson says that Yancey introduced legislation in the City Council for the divestment of city funds from South Africa. Yancey talks about his "unceasing opposition" to the policies of apartheid. Yancey criticizes the repression of blacks in South Africa. Other protest leaders help Yancey to adjust the bullhorn. Yancey says that the international community cannot tolerate the apartheid policies of the South African government. Yancey talks about the previous day's visit to Boston by Bishop Desmond Tutu (South African anti-apartheid leader). Yancey notes that Tutu has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Yancey calls on all people to join the protest against apartheid. Yancey criticizes the federal government's policy toward South Africa. Yancey talks about the importance of acts of civil disobedience in opposing apartheid in South Africa. The crowd applauds. 1:10:15: V: The crowd applauds as Mel King (political activist) takes the bullhorn. King thanks the protestors for coming out to protest. Reverend Charles Stith (Union United Methodist Church) stands next to King. King challenges Richard Blankstein (honorary consul to South Africa) to come down from the consulate and speak to the protestors. King challenges Blankstein to resign in protest of the South African government's apartheid policies. King accuses the Reagan administration of engaging in racist policies in South Africa. King says that protestors will picket multi-national corporations who do business in South Africa; that large corporations need to divest from South Africa. King accuses these corporations of supporting apartheid. King talks about a South African trade union leader who has been jailed by the South African government. King says that the trade union leader has encouraged US protestors to push for corporate divestiture from South Africa. King calls for an end to Reagan's policies and an end to apartheid. 1:14:16: V: Johnson puts on a hat with a sign pinned to it. The sign reads, "For shame." Johnson addresses the crowd. Johnson quotes Nelson Mandela (ANC leader) as saying that he is prepared to die for a free South Africa. Johnson expresses support for Mandela and the black South Africans who are fighting apartheid.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/04/1984

Black Voters

Description: Callie Crossley interviews Boyce Slayman (Rainbow Coalition) about African American perceptions of US President, Ronald Reagan. Slayman criticizes Reagan's policies and talks about racism in the campaign. Slayman says that the Democratic Party needs to address civil rights issues and other issues important to the African American community. Slayman adds that African Americans will become more politically active at the local level; he says that Reagan cannot afford to ignore the minority population. The tape includes footage of African American and white voters lining up at a polling station to vote. Voters enter and exit voting booths. Slayman and other campaign workers hold campaign signs in front of a polling station; the workers approach voters as they enter the polling station. Crossley interviews an African American man outside of the polling station. The man talks about why he voted for Walter Mondale and Reagan's proposed cutbacks. The man says that Reagan does not care about issues affecting the African American community. Crossley interviews a white woman and a white man. The woman says that she voted for Mondale and Geraldine Ferraro because she is a democrat and a supporter of women's issues. The man says that he voted for Mondale and that Ferraro's presence on the ticket did not affect his decision.
1:00:11: Visual: Callie Crossley interviews Boyce Slayman (Rainbow Coalition) near Washington Street. Crossley asks Slayman about African American perceptions of Ronald Reagan (US President). Slayman says that African Americans have suffered under the Reagan administration; that Reagan has cut programs in education, healthcare, and nutrition programs; that Reagan has rolled back affirmative action programs. Crossley asks Slayman about racism in the campaign. Crossley notes that most African Americans are supporting Mondale; that the majority of white voters are supporting Reagan. Slayman says that racism is a factor in the election. Slayman says that Jesse Jackson (candidate for US President) was treated poorly by the media during the primary elections. Slayman says that the Democratic Party is not speaking to the issues of African American voters; that the Democratic Party needs to address civil rights issues. Crossley asks what African Americans can expect if Reagan wins the election. Slayman says that African Americans can only hope that Reagan will change his policies. Slayman lists the policies that need to be changed under the Reagan administration. Slayman says that the nation will see declines in the areas of employment, civil rights and housing if Reagan does not change his policies. Crossley asks if a continuation of Reagan's policies will lead to unrest or riots. Slayman says that he would not expect riots; that riots would ensue if Jackson were assassinated. Slayman says that people of color will become more politically active at the local level; that African Americans are ignored at the national level of politics; that African Americans cannot be ignored if they take control of their immediate environment. Slayman says that African Americans will not support growth at their expense. Slayman says that an increase in African American political activity grew from African American opposition to Reagan's policies. Slayman says that Reagan cannot afford to ignore minority populations; that these populations need to benefit from the nation's growth and economic recovery. 1:07:23: V: The camera crew takes cutaway shots of Crossley and Slayman. Crossley and Slayman speak informally. Crossley and Slayman discuss whether the Democrats will retain control of Congress. Slayman talks about voting patterns in the South. 1:08:26: V: African American and white voters are lined up to vote in a hallway outside of a polling station. Poll workers sit behind a table. The poll workers flip through voter lists as they check in the voters. Shots of voters entering and exiting voting booths. An African American woman directs voters to the voting booths. Shots of the voting booths with curtains closed; of poll workers checking in voters. Shot of a voting machine with levers inside of a voting booth. 1:12:41: V: An African American man hands out flyers outside of a polling station. Slayman campaigns for a candidate outside of the polling station. Slayman and other African American campaign workers approach voters outside of the polling station. Shots of campaign signs for John Kerry (candidate for US Senate) and Walter Mondale (candidate for US President). The campaign workers continue to campaign outside of the polling station. A pick-up truck passes by, playing music from a loudspeaker. A sign on the truck reads, "Jesse yes. Walter no. Independent is the way to go." Shots of campaign signs. 1:14:51: V: Crossley interviews an African American man and an African American woman. The man says that he voted for Mondale because he is the best candidate. Crossley asks if Reagan has any understanding or caring for the needs of African Americans. The man says that Reagan does not; that Reagan's past performance shows that he does not care. The man fears that Reagan will make more cutbacks if reelected. Crossley asks if the man was influenced by Mondale's choice of Geraldine Ferraro as his running mate. The man says that Mondale sent a positive message by choosing Ferraro; that the ERA (Equal Rights Amendment) is a good thing. Crossley asks the woman about her vote. The woman says that she voted for Mondale. The woman says that she does not want to be interviewed. 1:16:33: V: Crossley interviews a white woman and a white man. The woman says that she voted for the Mondale/Ferraro ticket because she is a Democrat and supports women's issues. The woman says that she would have voted Democratic even if Ferraro had not been on the ticket. The woman says that the ERA must be passed. Crossley asks the man about his vote. The man says that he voted for the Mondale/Ferraro ticket because he is embarrassed to have Reagan as the leader of the country. The man says that he was more influenced by issues than he was by the presence of Ferraro on the ticket.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/06/1984

Black female doctors

Description: Dr. Gloria White-Hammond (pediatrician) examines a young Latina child in an examining room. The child cries and White-Hammond comforts her, speaking in English and in Spanish. White-Hammond speaks to the child's mother about treatments for the child. White-Hammond examines the child with a stethoscope. Interview with White-Hammond about a program designed to increase the number of African American physicians across the nation. She says that medical schools lack the financial, academic and other kinds of support necessary to retain some students. She discusses the need for more minority physicians, who bring a "sensitivity" to the treatment of minority patients. Video cuts out and then comes back with stills of infographics on new Boston University medical school program and minority doctors.
1:03:41: V: The camera crew sets up a shot of the doctor examining the child. The child begins to cry. White-Hammond examines the rash on the child's leg. The child grows upset as she sits on the examining table. The child's mother removes her dress. White-Hammond comforts the child in Spanish. White-Hammond examines the child with a stethoscope. White-Hammond tries to comfort the child as she cries. 1:06:32: V: White-Hammond talks to Callie Crossley (WGBH reporter) and the camera crew. Crossley asks White-Hammond her opinion on a program designed to increase the number of African American physicians across the nation. White-Hammond says that she is not very familiar with the program; that the program sounds like a good idea. Crossley explains some of the features of the program. Crossley notes that the program eliminates the MCAT entrance exam for medical school. White-Hammond says that the program has potential; that the structure of the program and the selection process will be important. White-Hammond says that medical schools lack the kind of support system needed to retain some students; that financial, academic and other kinds of support are necesssary for students to do well in medical school. White-Hammond says that the medical field needs more minority doctors; that minority patients request to be treated by minority doctors. White-Hammond says that minority doctors bring a "sensitivity" to the treatment of minority patients; that many minority students have the intellectual capability and the determination to become successful doctors. Crossley closes the interview.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 06/28/1984

Boston EEOC office opens

Description: Thomas Saltonstall (Area Director, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) speaks at a press conference to mark the opening of a Boston office of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Saltonstall introduces Robert Williams (regional attorney for the EEOC). Saltonstall discusses the EEOC's commitment to the elimination of race discrimination in employment and to equal opportunities for women, older workers and minorities; he announces the initiatives planned by the EEOC to enforce federal anti-discrimination laws. Saltonstall says that the EEOC will focus on voluntary compliance. Saltonstall discusses statistics illustrating the underrepresentation, or "opportunity gap," in the employment of women in management and of minorities in the city's overall work force. Saltonstall presents statistics illustrating the "opportunity gap" for minorities in the printing/publishing industry, the communications industry, investment companies, brokerage firms, and retail stores. Saltonstall talks about the concentration of Boston's minority workers in lower-paying jobs. Tape 1 of 2
1:00:05: Visual: A federal official from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the US Department of Labor stands at a podium speaking to the media at a press conference on the opening of a Boston office of the EEOC. The official commends Thomas Saltonstall (Regional Director, EEOC) and the General Services Administration (GSA) for the design and effective use of space in the new EEOC office. Shot of the EEOC seal on the front of the podium. The official says that the EEOC is committed to equal treatment and access for all citizens; that minorities and women must be given an equal opportunity to advance themselves in the workplace. The official talks about the need for society to renew its commitment to civil rights. The official thanks the audience. Shot of audience members. 1:05:16: V: Saltonstall introduces Robert Williams (regional attorney for the EEOC). Saltonstall talks about the need to redress the employment opportunity gaps which exist for minorities in Boston. Saltonstall says that he will focus on race discrimination in employment; that the EEOC is also committed to equal opportunities for women, older workers and other minorities. Saltonstall announces the initiatives which will be taken by the EEOC to enforce federal anti-discrimination laws. Saltonstall says that the EEOC will promote a program of voluntary compliance with the statutes; that the EEOC will expand its services to the public; that the EEOC will focus on eliminating broad patterns and practices of employment discrimination; that the EEOC will focus on improving the quality and impact of the lawsuits filed. Saltonstall notes that he does not want to preach or embarass anyone. 1:08:23: V: Saltonstall defines the term "opportunity gap." Saltonstall refers to a chart illustrating the opportunity gap existing in 1980 for women as officials and managers in the Boston area. Saltonstall says that Boston rates among the lowest of six cities in a survey measuring the percentage of women in managerial positions. Saltonstall notes that minorities make up 29% of the labor force in the city of Boston; that minorities make up only 8% of the work force in the metropolitan area; that this disparity is greater in Boston than in any other major city. Saltonstall explains that the metropolitan figure of 8% has been used to calculate opportunity gaps; that the metropolitan figure is low when applied to businesses in the city. Saltonstall defines minorities. Saltonstall explains how the statistics were compiled. 1:13:58: V: Saltonstall refers to a chart illustrating the opportunity gap for minorities in the business of security/commodity brokerage. Saltonstall explains that individual companies will have performances which are better or worse than the average. Saltonstall notes that an unnamed private company in the Boston area has been targeted for enforcement action by the EEOC; that the unnamed company employs between 500 and 1000 employees; that all of the employees are white and only 3 employees are women. 1:15:28: Visual: Saltonstall refers to a chart illustrating the underrepresentation in the printing/publishing industry. Saltonstall notes that minorities are underrepresented as office workers and sales workers. Close-up shot of chart indicating statistical representation of minorities in jobs in the printing/publishing industry. Saltonstall says that many employers have claimed that they cannot find qualified minority employees to hire. Saltonstall says that there is not a shortage of qualified minority employees for low-paying clerical and sales positions. Saltonstall says that the opportunity gap widened for minority workers in the communications industry and other industries between 1970 and 1982. Close-up shot of the chart illustrating statistical representation of minority workers in the communications industry. Saltonstall notes that minorities are underrepresented in all white collar job categories in the communications industry except for office/clerical jobs. Saltonstall adds that many major companies in the communications industry failed to report statistics to the EEOC; that private employers are required by law to report statistics to the EEOC. 1:17:13: Saltonstall says that the opportunity gap widened for minority workers in food stores between 1970 and 1982. Saltonstall says that the statistics are "appalling"; that minority workers are underrepresented in all positions except as laborors and sales workers. Saltonstall refers to a chart illustrating representation of minority workers in investment companies. Saltonstall says that the opportunity gap for minorities in investment companies widened between 1970 and 1982; that hiring for managerial positions tripled, while the number of minority workers in those positions decreased. Saltonstall notes that minority workers are underrepresented in all white collar jobs except for clerical positions; that all of the laborors working for investment companies are white; that all of the companies represented by the statistics are located within the city of Boston. Saltonstall refers to a chart illustrating minority worker representation in general merchandise stores. Saltonstall says that the retail industry should be hiring more minority workers because a significant share of their income comes from minority shoppers. Saltonstall notes that the opportunity gap for minority workers in general merchandise stores widened between 1970 and 1982; that the minority participation rate in the industry has declined since 1970. Saltonstall talks about the concentration of minorities in lower-paying jobs.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/19/1984

Drop-a-Dime

Description: Story on the Drop-a-Dime Program started by Roxbury residents Georgette Watson and Rev. Bruce Wall. Pedestrians on the streets of Roxbury and Roxbury neighborhood in the evening. Watson points out a drug dealer and a building out of which the drug trade operates. Interview with Watson about the drug problem in the city and the effectiveness of the Drop-a-Dime Program. She talks about the role of neighborhood youth in the drug trade. Representatives from the Drop-a-Dime Program were not included in the mayor's newly formed council on drug abuse. Mayor Ray Flynn holds press conference announcing the formation of the council. Ben Thompson, Chairman of the council, says that the council intends to work with anti-crime and drug prevention groups across the city. William Weld, US Attorney for Massachusetts, and Derek Sanderson, former player for the Boston Bruins, stand with the other members of the council at the press conference. Interview with Bruce Wall about how community groups have not been included on the council. He adds that members of community groups understand how the drug trade functions in their neighborhoods. Flynn will go to the Boston City Council to obtain funding to combat drug abuse in the city.
1:00:05: Visual: Shots through the windshield of a traveling car of Boston streets; of Washington Street; of youth gathered in front of a building. Audio of Georgette Watson (Roxbury community leader) talking about drug trafficking in her neighborhood. Watson points out a well-known drug dealer as he walks across the street. Watson talks about the role of neighborhood youth in the drug trade. Meg Vaillancourt reports that Watson is familiar with the drug trade in her neighborhood; that Watson and Reverend Bruce Wall (Roxbury community leader) started the Drop-a-Dime program. Vaillancourt reports that the Drop-a-Dime program encourages residents to phone in tips and information about the drug trade to police; that South Boston and Roxbury police have found the tips to be mostly accurate. V: Shots of Watson and Wall; of a tape recorder. Footage of a hand pressing the play button on the tape recorder. Audiocassette is heard playing in the background of the report. Shots from a traveling car of Washington Street in the evening. Vaillancourt reports that Watson wants to expand Drop-a-Dime program into a city-wide service; that representatives from the program were not included in the mayor's council on drug abuse. V: Footage of Watson saying that Drop-a-Dime deserves more support from the mayor and the city. Vaillancourt reports that the Ray Flynn (Mayor of the City of Boston) held a press conference today to announce his new drug abuse council; that Flynn did not answer questions regarding the absence of Drop-a-Dime representatives from the council. V: Shots of Flynn and his council at a press conference. Footage of Ben Thompson (Chairman of the Council), saying that the council intends to be "inclusive"; that the council intends to work with other anti-crime and drug prevention groups across the city. Footage of Wall saying that community groups need to be included on the mayor's council; that community groups understand how the drug trade functions on the streets of the city. Shots of members of the drug abuse council, including William Weld (US Attorney for Massachusetts) and Derek Sanderson (former player for the Boston Bruins). Footage of Flynn explaining that Sanderson will be paid by the city of Boston; that the rest of the committee is made up of volunteers. Shots of the council preparing to leave the press conference. Vaillancourt notes that the council is made up of local and state officials. Vaillancourt notes that the council will prepare a report on how the city can combat drug abuse; that Flynn will take the report to the Boston City Council in order to obtain funding; that it will be difficult for Flynn to obtain extra funds because of the economic crisis faced by the city.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 12/07/1984

Family Foodland

Description: B-roll footage of shoppers and employees at a Family Foodland supermarket. A butcher puts out packages of meat at the meat counter, while shoppers inspect the meat. A female shopper chooses lemons and limes from the fruit display. An employee straightens the magazine rack near the check out counter. Other employees ring up sales and provide customer service to customers. Customers enter and exit the store, move through various aisles as they shop and wait in the check out line. Exteriors of the store.
1:00:07: Visual: A butcher puts out packages of meat at the meat counter of Family Foodland. Shots of packages of meat. An African American shoppers inspect the meat at the counter. An African American female shopper chooses lemons and limes from the fruit display at the supermarket. The camera crew instructs the shopper to choose two lemons at a time. Shots of the shopper's hands as she chooses the fruit. Close-up shot of the shopper's face. 1:03:42: V: The camera crew sets up a shot. An African American worker in a suit and tie neatens the magazine rack near the check-out counter. An African American female employee helps a customer at the customer service desk. An African American female employee rings up the purchases of a shopper. The employee counts the money given by the shopper, and returns change and a receipt. A member of the camera crew helps a worker arrange a display of rice packages. 1:06:30: V: African American shoppers and employees pass through the front aisle of the supermarket. An African American female employee rings up the purchases of an African American male shopper. An African American man and woman shop in the canned foods aisle. An African American employee rings up the purchases of an African American family. Shot of the cash register. The employee rings up the purchases of a young African American woman. 1:10:22: V: A shopper hands money over to an African American female employee who works the cash register. African American shoppers wait in line at the cash registers. Shot of the canned food aisle. Shoppers continue to stand in line at the cash register. African American female shoppers push shopping carts down the canned food aisle. 1:13:01: V: Shot of the exterior of the Family Foodland Supermarket; of the sign on the building. A small number of African American men stand in front of the supermarket. Shoppers enter and exit the supermarket.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/15/1984

Jesse Jackson interview

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

Jesse Jackson's vernacular

Description: During informal conversation prior to an interview with Christopher Lydon, Dennis Farney (Wall Street Journal) and Ken Bode (NBC News), Jesse Jackson uses expletives to describe how his parents disciplined him as a child.
1:00:00: Visual: Jesse Jackson (US presidential candidate) sits in the WGBH studio with Christopher Lydon, Dennis Farney (Wall Street Journal) and Ken Bode (NBC News) before an interview. A crew member adjusts Jackson's lapel microphone. The four men joke lightheartedly about the interview. Lydon tells a story about another reporter's 1972 interview with George McGovern (Democratic nominee for US president). Lydon says that McGovern was asked if his father beat him as a child. Jackson uses slang and expletives to describe how his parents disciplined him as a child. Visual: Video cuts out. Audio of Lydon asking Jackson about his favorite ministers in the Boston area. Jackson mentions Reverend Charles Stith. Video returns. Lydon runs his hands through his hair and prepares for the interview.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 02/03/1984

John Kerry

Description: Jim Shannon (Democratic candidate for US Senate) holds a press conference to announce the endorsement of his candidacy by Vietnam veterans' leaders. Charles Harris (veterans' leader) and another man criticize the record of John Kerry (Democratic candidate for US Senate) on veterans' issues. Harris says that Kerry has failed to deliver on his promises of leadership made to veterans and other voters. Harris explains that the veterans' leaders are from an umbrella organization called Vietnam Veterans of Massachusetts Incorporated. Harris and others decline to state their affiliation with other veterans' groups. Charles Bennett interviews Shannon after the press conference. Bennett notes that some observers have accused Shannon of pulling a "stunt." Shannon talks about his strong record on veterans' issues. John Kerry campaigns in an African American neighborhood in Boston. Bennett interviews two members of the Black Political Task Force. The members of the Black Political Task Force talk about their endorsement of Kerry's candidacy. Bennett interviews Kerry. Kerry talks about the Black Political Task Force's endorsement of his candidacy. He says that he will fight for the issues important to the African American community. Bennett asks Kerry about the endorsement by some veterans of Shannon's candidacy. Kerry talks about his record on veterans' issues and his opposition to the Vietnam War. Kerry says that Vietnam veterans are not a "monolithic group." Kerry talks about his relations with veterans' groups and his most recent campaign advertisement, which focuses on his record as a soldier in Vietnam and on his opposition to the war.
1:00:01: Visual: Jim Shannon (candidate for US Senate) holds a press conference with a number of leaders of Massachusetts' Vietnam Veterans groups. The Veterans leaders announce their endorsement of Shannon in the race for US Senate. Shannon and the Veterans leaders stand at the front of a room. The media is gathered around them. A veterans leader says that John Kerry (candidate for US Senate) has not fully addressed veterans' issues. The veterans leader refers to a prepared report on veterans' issues. He says that Francis Doris (State Senator from Revere) deserves all of the credit for taking action on veterans' issues. Charles Harris (veterans leader) talks about the Federal Job Training Partnership Act. Harris notes that Vietnam Veterans are eligible for job training under that act. Harris says that Kerry had promised to release state funds for the program; that Kerry did not release the funds until Shannon wrote a letter in support of the veterans. Close-up shot of Shannon. The moderator addresses the audience. The moderator tells the media to ask Kerry about the questions raised by the veterans' groups. 1:02:43: V: A reporter asks if one of the leaders will identify himself and talk about his group. One of the leaders says that many of the veterans are here on their own to support Shannon; that they are not present as representatives of any group or organization. Harris explains that the Vietnam Veterans of Massachusetts Incorporated is a non-profit umbrella organization representing grassroots veterans organizations from across the state; that the organization is prohibited from endorsing a political candidate. Shots of campaign buttons reading, "Viet Vets for Shannon." Harris says that Kerry has not delivered on promises of leadership made to veterans and other voters. Harris says that many veterans are ashamed to admit that they served in Vietnam. Reporters urge the leaders to identify themselves and their positions. 1:05:20: V: Charles Bennett interviews Shannon. Bennett notes that many observers view Shannon's press conference as a "stunt." Shannon says that he has developed relationships with all of these veterans' leaders during his service as a member of Congress; that he has won their support with his strong record on veterans' issues. Bennett asks Shannon about Kerry's TV commercial focusing on Vietnam. Shannon says that he does not know how voters or veterans will respond to Kerry's commercial. 1:06:56: V: John Kerry campaigns in an African American neighborhood. Kerry stands on the sidewalk of a busy street. Kerry speaks informally to a small group of people. Supporters stand on the sidewalk, holding Kerry campaign signs. Shot of a Kerry campaign sign. Kerry speaks to an African American man while a reporter waits to set up an interview with him. 1:08:09: V: Bennett sets up an interview with two leaders of the Black Political Task Force. Bennett asks them why they have endorsed Kerry. One man says that the Black Political Task Force researches all potential candidates before making an endorsement; that the Task Force has chosen to endorse Kerry for US Senate. The reporter asks if their endorsement will result in more votes for Kerry. The second man says that many African American voters respect the endorsements of the Task Force; that many voters follow their counsel. 1:09:16: V: Kerry joins the interview. Bennett asks why the endorsement is important. Kerry says that he respects the research performed by the Task Force before making an endorsement; that he supports the African American community's struggle for equality and betterment. Kerry says that he is proud to have the endorsement of the Task Force; that he intends to fight for issues important to the African American community as a US Senator. Kerry says that his first priority as a US Senator would be to consult with the African American community on a list of economic and educational priorities; that he wants to address those priorities as US Senator. Bennett asks Kerry about the Vietnam veterans' endorsement of Shannon. Kerry notes that only "some" veterans have endorsed Shannon. Kerry says that the Vietnam veterans are not a "monolithic" group; that some veterans do not support his position on the issues. Kerry talks about his political record on veterans' issues. Kerry talks about his opposition to the war, his support for V.A. hospitals and his support for an extended G.I. bill and for other veterans' issues. Kerry adds that he has always worked hard on behalf of veterans; that he has a great deal of veteran support. Bennett asks Kerry if some veterans resent his opposition to the war. Kerry says that some veterans may resent his opposition to the war; that he will not change his beliefs. Bennett asks Kerry if he regrets his TV commercial focusing on Vietnam. Kerry says that the TV commercial is one of the most important statements of his campaign; that he is asking Americans to remember the lesson of Vietnam. Kerry says that he does not want the US to get involved in "another Vietnam." Bennett quotes one Vietnam veteran as saying, "When you put down the war, you put down the warriors." Kerry says that people have confused the war with the warriors; that he is proud of the Vietnam soldiers. Kerry notes that soldiers were the victims of the war; that he feels a sense of brotherhood with all of the veterans regardless of whether they support him. Bennett thanks Kerry.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/07/1984

Lawrence race riots

Description: This tape includes footage of the aftermath of race riots in Lawrence in August of 1984. Residents stand on the street; some of the buildings are damaged. Two men inspect a burnt-out house. A man repairs a broken window. A group of people stands outside of a liquor store. The sign for the liquor store is damaged; debris is visible on the floor of the liquor store. A group of men move boxes from the store onto a truck. A police cruiser moves down a blockaded street. Police direct traffic in front of the liquor store. Footage from the McNeil-Lehrer Newshour. Robert McNeil reports on race riots in the Tower Hill section of Lawrence. McNeil notes that gangs of Latino youth and gangs of white youth were throwing molotov cocktails and that police were called in to restore order. McNeil’s report includes night footage of the riots in Lawrence.
1:00:04: Visual: Shot of a residential street in Lawrence. Two white men in business suits stand on the lot of a burnt out house. A few people are gathered outside of a house on a residential street in Lawrence. Shot of a liquor store with bars over the windows. Two white women stand outside of a damaged building on a streetcorner. A motorcycle is parked in front of the building. A white man peers out of a broken window in the building. A white man looks out of a window of a house. 1:01:26: V: A group of white adults and kids stand outside of a liquor store in Lawrence. A few people walk up a residential street toward the liquor store. The street is strewn with debris. Shot of the damaged liquor store sign. Shots of a pick-up truck; of a man closing the back of a U-haul moving truck. A man repairs the broken window of a building on a street corner in Lawrence. Close-up shots of other broken windows. The U-haul moving truck pulls up to the front of the liquor store. Shot of the damaged liquor store sign. White men move alcohol from the store into the moving truck. Shot of debris on the floor of the liquor store; of the interior of the moving truck; of the front of the liquor store. 1:03:14: V: Shot of hand-lettered sign reading, "Keep out." A group of white men are gathered in front of a burnt-out house. Shots of the charred remains of the house. A police cruiser travels down a street. The street is blockaded with "Do not enter" signs. The cruiser travels toward the liquor store and moving van. Long shot of the blockaded street with the liquor store. Video cuts out briefly at the end of this segment. Street noise is audible. 1:04:50: V: Two white police officers stand in the middle of a residential street. A crowd of all ages mills about. The crowd includes whites, Hispanics and African Americans. A crowd is gathered near the liquor store. A police officer directs a car as it maneuvers in the crowded street. 1:05:34: News brief from the McNeil-Lehrer Newshour. Robert McNeil reads news headlines. McNeil reports on violence in the Tower Hill section of Lawrence. McNeil reports that gangs of youth threw molotov cocktails; that one gang was Spanish-speaking; that the other gang included French-Canadian, Irish and Italian youth. V: Footage of youth gang members in the dark. The youth carry sticks. Molotov cocktails are thrown by the youth. The molotov cocktails explode on the pavement. McNeil reports that four people were arrested and twenty people were injured; that police used tear gas to restore order at 2:00 am. V: Footage of youth armed with sticks; of police marching among small fires burning on the street.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 08/09/1984

Minority Voters

Description: Mel King speaks at a press conference held on behalf of the Massachusetts Rainbow Coalition and the Massachusetts Jesse Jackson Committee. Committee members stand behind King as he reads an open letter from Jesse Jackson. Jackson's letter criticizes Ronald Reagan and urges voters to support Walter Mondale in the upcoming election. Domenic Bozzotto (labor leader) speaks at the press conference. Bozzotto denounces Reagan and says that the labor movement must support Mondale. May Louie (Rainbow Coalition leader) speaks at the press conference. Louie calls on all members of the Rainbow Coalition to support Mondale, even if they are not entirely comfortable with his candidacy. King answers questions from reporters. King talks about efforts by both committees to register new voters. Louie and King talk about the committees' efforts to win over voters in Massachusetts. King says that the Rainbow Coalition can work more successfully with Democratic leaders than with Reagan. King talks about the dissatisfaction of Jackson voters with the Democratic Party. King says that the Democratic Party has ignored Jackson's efforts to push for a more inclusive platform. King says that the Democratic Party needs "serious transformation." King says that the committees are struggling for the minds of the people. He adds that it is "immoral" not to vote against Reagan in the upcoming election. Several takes of reporter standup.
1:00:00: Visual: Mel King (political activist) sits at a table at a press conference. Other leaders of the Massachusetts Jesse Jackson Committee sit at the table with King. Supporters stand behind the table, in front of a banner for the Rainbow Coalition. King tells the media that he is speaking on behalf of the Massachusetts Jesse Jackson Committee and the Massachusetts Rainbow Coalition. King expresses his support for Jackson. King reads an open letter from Jackson about the importance of getting out the vote against Ronald Reagan (US President). Jackson's letter urges people to support Walter Mondale (candidate for US President) against Reagan. The letter denounces Reagan's record as president. Jackson's letter predicts that Reagan can be beat if "the victims of Reaganism" come out to vote for Mondale. Jackson writes that the people can effect change in society through political means. Jackson's letter urges people to help him build the Democratic Party into a Rainbow Coalition. King finishes reading the letter. The supporters applaud. 1:05:10: V: King hands the microphone to Domenic Bozzotto (labor leader). Bozzotto says that the Rainbow Coalition's purpose is to defeat Reagan and Reaganism. Bozzotto denounces Reaganism and its effect on working people and labor unions. Bozzotto says that the labor movement must join the Rainbow Coalition in order to support Mondale and to defeat Reagan. 1:06:12: V: May Louie (Rainbow Coalition leader) calls on all members of the Rainbow Coalition to fight Reagan and Reaganism. Louie admits that some members of the Coalition may not be entirely comfortable with Mondale's candidacy; that it is important to support Mondale in order to defeat Reagan. 1:06:53: V: King invites the reporters to ask questions. Shots of supporters standing behind King. A reporter asks how many votes Jackson received in the Massachusetts primary. Another reporter answers that Jackson received 33,000 votes. A reporter asks how many citizens the group would like to register to vote during its voter registration drive. King says that he does not have a specific numerical goal; that it is "immoral" for people not to vote when faced with the "danger" represented by Reagan's policies. King notes that many people have responded to the group's message by registering to vote. King adds that more than 1,000 people have been registered to vote in the South End during the past month. A reporter asks if King expects Jackson to visit Massachusetts. King says that the group is working to bring Jackson to Massachusetts; that Jackson is campaigning for Mondale in the South. 1:09:08: V: A reporter asks if the Rainbow Coalition expects to win over the voters who supported Gary Hart (US Senator) in the Democratic primary election. King says that the goal of the Coalition is to defeat Reagan; that the members of the Coalition can work with Democratic leaders more successfully than they can work with Reagan. Louie adds that the Massachusetts delegation to the Democratic Convention voted with Jackson supporters on some platform issues; that Massachusetts voters are receptive to the issues put forth by the Coalition. A reporter asks why this announcement was not made immediately after the Democratic convention. King says that the group is working for Jackson; that Jackson wrote the letter recently; that the group is following Jackson's instructions. King notes that the group is working hard to register voters; that the group will work to get out the vote in support of Mondale. King adds that the group will use the media and other strategies to publicize its message. 1:11:28: V: A reporter asks King how they will motivate voters to get to the polls on election day. Shots of the media and the audience. King says that the movement to defeat Reagan is the first of many steps in building up the Rainbow Coalition; that the Coalition will be more successful if Reagan is out of office. Shots of members of the Massachusetts Jesse Jackson Committee; of a sign reading, "For 50 years, we've belonged to the Democratic Party. Now it's time that the Democratic Party belonged to us." A reporter asks King about the committee's slogan about the committee's slogan, "For 50 years, we've belonged to the Democratic Party. Now it's time that the Democratic Party belonged to us." King says that Jackson's goal is to "remake" the Democratic Party into a "rainbow" party of "peace, jobs and justice." King notes that the labor movement has seen the importance of joining with Jackson to defeat Reagan; that Reagan's policies are anti-union. A reporter comments that the slogan expresses a sense of "dissatisfaction" with the Democratic Party. King says that the reporter is right. The committee members applaud. King notes that the Rainbow Coalition is "critical" of Mondale and the Democratic Party; that the Democratic Party has failed to consider Jackson's efforts to push for a more inclusive platform. King adds that he is an independent. King says that Jackson's leadership is important; that Jackson is trying to push the Democratic Party to represent the needs of a broader cross section of people. King says that the Democratic Party "needs serious transformation." King adds that people who have been "locked out" of the Democratic Party need to support Jackson in order to transform the Party. Bozzotto says that Jackson has laid out a blueprint for a Democratic victory in November. Bozzotto adds that Jackson has brought voters back to the Democratic Party. 1:16:13: V: King says that the Jackson Committee is "struggling for people's minds." Jackson says that people in the US and across the world are "dying daily" as a result of Reagan's policies; that it is "immoral" for citizens of the US not to come out to vote against Reagan. King says that the "soul" of the nation is at stake. King talks about the responsibility of citizens to vote in November in order to rid the world of the "menace" posed by the Reagan administration. King closes the press conference. The Jackson Committee members applaud. King and the Committee members rise from their seats. 1:18:06: V: Meg Vaillancourt stands under the banner reading, "For 50 years, we've belonged to the Democratic Party. Now it's time that the Democratic Party belonged to us." Vaillancourt reports that the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus is trying to convince some Republicans to vote Democratic this year; that some Democrats are talking about their plans to reform the Party from within. Vaillancourt does several takes of her comments for the news story.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 10/01/1984

POS following Flynn inauguration

Description: Reporter Christopher Lydon interviews attendees of the inauguration of Ray Flynn as Mayor of Boston, in the Wang Center. The crowd cheers as Flynn and former mayor Kevin White pass by. Lydon interviews attendees of the inauguration in the lobby of the Wang Center. Interviewees express concerns about unemployment, crime, the restoration of city services and the city budget. Cynthia Silveira (Dorchester resident) says that she appreciates Flynn's commitment to diversity and unity but is suspicious of his past voting record on racial issues. Lydon interviews people outside of the Wang Center. Harry Spence (Boston Housing Authority) says that Flynn delivered a "solid" speech, but will face difficulties in delivering city services and achieving racial harmony. George Keverian (State Representative) says that Flynn is the right person to unite the city. Louise Day Hicks (former member of the Boston City Council) says that Flynn must strike a balance between downtown concerns and neighborhood interests. Hicks says that South Boston is the "center of the city." Hicks speaks to Dapper O'Neil outside of the Wang Center. Felix Arroyo (Latino activist) hopes that Flynn will deliver on his promises; Arroyo believes that it will be difficult for Flynn to integrate the city's neighborhoods. Elma Lewis (African American activist) says that she and others will work with Flynn to improve the city. Lewis adds that she is "always looking for diversity." Claire Crawford (Boston resident) says that Flynn is a "people's mayor." Flynn exits the Wang Center and gets in his station wagon; crowd cheers. Lydon interviews James Kelly (South Boston Information Center). Kelly expresses reservations about Flynn's proposal for District Advisory Councils. Thomas Menino (Boston City Council) compliments Flynn's inaugural speech.
1:00:00: Visual: Christopher Lydon interviews a white male about the inaugural speech of Ray Flynn (Mayor, City of Boston) at the Wang Center for the Performing Arts. The man says that Flynn gave a strong speech; that he is optimistic about Flynn's administration. The man says that Flynn will face challenges in improving the schools. Lydon speaks informally to the man. 1:00:45: V: Uniformed officers march up the stairs in the lobby of the Wang Center. People are gathered in the lobby. The audience cheers as Flynn exits a room and proceeds up the stairs. Flynn's young daughter holds his hand as he walks up the stairs. Flynn stops to greet bystanders as he passes. Kevin White (former Mayor of Boston) and Kathryn White (wife of Kevin White) proceed up the stairs after Flynn. 1:02:12: V: Lydon interviews a white man who is a Dorchester resident. The man says that Flynn is the first mayor since Josiah Quincy to have a "sense of the city"; that Flynn is familiar with the neighborhoods and the downtown. Lydon interviews a white middle-aged man about Flynn's speech. The man says that Flynn's speech was very good; that Flynn understands that the government exists to serve the people. The man says that Flynn will face a challenge in restoring city services during an economic crisis. An older white woman says that Flynn's speech was "wonderful." The woman says that Flynn will face a challenge in reducing unemployment; that Flynn's emphasis on unity was important. Cynthia Silveira (Dorchester resident) says that Flynn's speech was good; that she hesitates to trust Flynn because of his past voting record on racial issues. Silveira says that it will be difficult for Flynn to give his full attention to Boston neighborhoods; that she appreciates his commitment to diversity and unity. An older Irish woman recognizes Lydon from television. Her companions explains that they are from the region of Ireland where Flynn's family is from. The second Irish woman says that the speech was "wonderful." An older white woman says that Flynn will be a good mayor if he delivers what he promised in the speech; that it will be difficult for Flynn to reduce the crime rate. An older white man says that Flynn has the right idea; that Flynn will "economize." 1:06:59: V: A crowd streams out of the doors of the Wang Center. Lydon interviews Harry Spence (Boston Housing Authority). Spence says that Flynn delivered a "solid" speech; that it will be difficult for Flynn to deliver services and to achieve racial harmony. Spence says that Flynn's speech expressed his decency and commitment to the people. The crowd continues to exit the building. Groups of people are gathered outside of the doors. Members of the crowd greet Lydon. George Keverian (Massachusetts House of Representatives) greets Lydon and his two daughters. Keverian says that Flynn delivered a good speech; that Flynn's humanity was in evidence. Keverian says that Flynn is the right person to unite the people of Boston. Keverian continues to speak informally to Lydon and his daughters. 1:12:07: V: Louise Day Hicks greets Lydon. Hicks says that Flynn's speech covered many "interesting" and important topics; that South Boston is the "center" of the city. Hicks says that Flynn will need to strike a balance between the neighborhoods and the downtown interests; that Flynn needs to concentrate on affordable housing and crime reduction. Hicks confers with Dapper O'Neil (Boston City Council) on the street outside of the Wang Center. Lydon interviews Felix Arroyo (Latino activist). Arroyo says that the city will be a better place if Flynn can deliver on his promises. Arroyo says that Flynn will face challenges in integrating the neighborhoods; that he appreciates Flynn's commitment to education. Shot of a black car pulled up to the curb in front of the Wang Center. Lydon asks Elma Lewis (African American activist) about Flynn's speech. Lewis say that Flynn put on a good "show"; that inaugural speeches do not mean much; that she and others will work with Flynn to improve the city. Lewis says that she has attended inaugurals for many years; that she would like to have seen "more diversity"; that she is "always looking for more diversity." 1:17:04: V: Claire Crawford (Boston resident) says that Flynn is a "people's mayor." Crawford says that Flynn will face challenges in eliminating racial discrimination. Flynn exits the Wang Center. He greets several groups of bystanders. Photographers crowd around Flynn's station wagon. Flynn clears snow from his windshield. Flynn gets in the car and drives away. The crowd cheers briefly. 1:20:37: V: Lydon interviews Jim Kelly (South Boston Information Center). Kelly says that Flynn gave a good speech; that parts of the speech "concerned" him. Kelly expresses reservations about the District Advisory Councils. Kelly says that Flynn face difficulties in providing services to the city during an economic crisis. Kelly says that the people of South Boston are happy to "have a say" in how the city is run. Lydon begins to interview Thomas Menino (Boston City Council). Menino says that Flynn made an excellent speech.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/02/1984

Rainbow Coalition

Description: B-roll of campaign staff work at the local headquarters of the Rainbow Coalition in the South End. The workers speak on the telephone, sort through papers and assemble handouts. Boyce Slayman, a political consultant, speaks to some of the workers. He shows them a newspaper headline about Jackson's top position on the Massachusetts' primary ballot. Shots of Jackson campaign pins, Jackson campaign letterhead and shots of Rainbow Coalition posters. Close up on a photo of Jackson and community activist Mel King. Exteriors of the campaign headquarters. Campaign signs for King's mayoral candidacy remain in the window of the headquarters.
1:00:01: Visual: Shot of a Rainbow Coalition campaign button reading, "Jackson in '84." Campaign workers are working in the local headquarters of the Rainbow Coalition in the South End. An African American male campaign worker rummages through cardboard boxes on the floor. He looks for something in his desk. A white female campaign worker affixes a Rainbow Coalition campaign button to her shirt. The male campaign worker answers the phone, saying "Rainbow Coalition/Mel King's Office." A white female worker sits at a desk, speaking on the telephone. The male campaign worker assembles handouts from papers at his desk. Shot of the campaign workers Rainbow Coalition campaign pin, reading "Jackson '84." Shots of the letterhead on the papers on the campaign worker's desk. The letterhead reads, "Jesse Jackson for President Committee." The male campaign worker continues to assemble handouts. A white female worker sorts through papers while on the telephone. 1:05:20: V: Shot of a black and white photo of Mel King (African American community leader and activist) and Jesse Jackson (candidate for US President). King and Jackson have raise their linked arms in the photo. The white female campaign worker continues to talk on the telephone. She is talking about the Jackson campaign. Shot of the Rainbow Coalition campaign pin worn by the worker. 1:06:31: V: Boyce Slayman (African American community leader and political consultant) stands in the headquarters of the Rainbow Coalition. He speaks to an African American female campaign worker. Shot of a small painting of a rainbow. The caption above the rainbow reads, "I believe in love." Two campaign workers converse in an office. A white female campaign worker sorts paper in the office. Slayman enters the office and picks up a newspaper. The white female campaign worker continues to sort through papers. The crew sets up a shot with the white female campaign worker and an African American female campaign worker in the office. Slayman shows them both an article from the newspaper. Shot of a newspaper article with a headline reading, "Jackson's name to top primary ballot." Shot of the white female campaign worker's campaign button which reads, "Jesse Jackson. Now is the time. 1984." The white female campaign worker and the African American female campaign worker continue to work in the office. 1:10:20: V: Slayman reads the newspaper in the outer office where the male campaign worker and a white female campaign worker sit at desks. The white female campaign worker continues to speak on the telephone. The male campaign worker continues to assemble handouts. The African American female campaign worker confers with Slayman. 1:11:47: V: Shots of the exterior of the headquarters from the street outside. Snow is falling. Campaign signs from King's mayoral campaign hang in the window. A sign for the Rainbow Coalition hangs in the window.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 01/13/1984

Stevie Wonder at Harvard, Part 2

Description: Stevie Wonder speaks at a Harvard Law School Forum at Sanders Theatre. He answers questions from the audience. Wonder discusses his record label and the ups and downs of his career. Wonder talks about his need to be creative and to make music. Asked about apartheid, Wonder says that he will not perform in South Africa; he says that American citizens should make an effort to not support apartheid. Wonder takes his glasses off and pretends to read a letter given to him from an audience member. The audience cheers.
1:00:06: Visual: Stevie Wonder speaks at a Harvard Law School Forum at Sanders Theatre. Wonder talks about his record label. Wonder says that he is always looking for new talent. Wonder elicits laughs from the audience when he tries to imitate the mannerisms of a slick record producer. 1:01:43: V: Tape cuts out during an audience member's question about the ups and downs of Wonder's career. Wonder answers that his faith has helped him a lot. 1:01:58: V: Wonder talks about his desire to be creative and to make music. He talks about the time period when his song "Uptight" became a hit. Two members of a campus singing group present Wonder with a button from their group. One member of the group asks Wonder about his position on boycotts of apartheid South Africa. Wonder says that he will not perform in South Africa; that he understands the feelings of some musicians who do perform there. Wonder says that American citizens have a responsibility to do what they can to not support apartheid; that American citizens understand the ill effects of racism. An audience member talks about how she gave Wonder a necklace in 1973 when she attended one of his private recording sessions. Another audience member asks permission to go up on stage to present Wonder with a letter she wrote for him. The woman gives Wonder a hug on stage and presents him with the letter. 1:08:05: V: Wonder pretends to take off his glasses and read the letter. The audience cheers. Wonder leaves the stage. The audience applauds.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 04/19/1984

Ten O'Clock News broadcast

Description: Christopher Lydon and Gail Harris host a Ten O'Clock News broadcast. Christy George reports on a campaign debate between Republican US Senate candidates Elliot Richardson and Ray Shamie. The report includes footage of their debate at Faneuil Hall. Charles Bennett reports on the race between Democratic US Senate candidates Jim Shannon and John Kerry. Bennett reports that Shannon held a press conference to announce the endorsement of his candidacy by several leaders of Vietnam Veterans' groups. The report includes footage from the press conference featuring Shannon and Vietnam veterans Charles Harris and Sam Mullen. Bennett reviews Kerry's history as a Vietnam veteran and talks about Kerry's relations with veterans' groups. Bennett's report also includes footage from a campaign advertisement for Kerry. Lydon and Harris read headlines about Greg Bemis (arsonist) and a hepatitis outbreak in Worcester. Lydon reports on addresses to the B'Nai Brith convention by Ronald Reagan (US president) and Walter Mondale (Democratic candidate for US president). The report includes footage of both candidates addressing the convention. Harris reports on a power-sharing agreement between Israeli leaders Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Shamir. Harris's report features footage of Peres and Shamir at a press conference. Loretta Roach talks about school desegregation ten years later Christopher Lydon interviews in-studio guests Kim Marshall (Director for Curriculum, Boston Public Schools) and Loretta Roach (parent activist) about the state of Boston Public Schools ten years after the beginning of school desegregation. Marshall talks about the educational agenda for the schools; he says that the schools are beginning to improve. Roach says that she is more concerned about quality education than she is about integrated schools. Roach and Marshall say that the schools must concentrate on serving the present student population, which is poor and minority. Harris reads a news brief about school bus safety standards in the aftermath of a school bus accident in Rehoboth, Mass. Donna Hodge reports on Congressional efforts to protect the striped bass population in the Northeast. Hodge notes that there are disagreements between those who support a moratorium on striped bass fishing and those who are opposed to any quotas on striped bass fishing. Hodge's report includes footage from interviews with Kenny Baker (fisherman), Philip Coates (Director, Massachusetts Marine Fisheries) and Owen DeLong (Emergency Striped Bass Council).
1:00:02: Christopher Lydon and Gail Harris introduce the newscast. The logos of The Ten O'Clock News underwriters Shawmut Bank, New England Telephone, and The Nimrod Press are displayed. 1:00:54: Christopher Lydon reports on the debate at Faneuil Hall between Republican candidates for the Senate seat of Paul Tsongas (US Senator). Christy George reports on the debate. George says that the candidates disagreed on most of the issues. Visual: Footage of Elliot Richardson (candidate for US Senate) and Ray Shamie (candidate for US Senate) debating tax increases and the ERA (Equal Rights Amendment). 1:04:15: Harris reports that Jim Shannon (candidate for US Senate) won the personal endorsement of a number of the leaders of Massachusetts' Vietnam Veterans groups; that opponent John Kerry (candidate for US Senate) is a Vietnam veteran. Charles Bennett reports that Shannon choreographed a "large-scale stunt;" that the media was invited to a press conference where the endorsement was announced. V: Footage from Vietnam- A Television History, of Kerry in Vietnam; of Vietnam protesters in Washington D.C.; of Kerry testifying about Vietnam before the US Congress; of a sign reading "Vietnam Vets against the war." Bennett reviews Kerry's history as a Vietnam veteran and as an activist protesting against the war. V: Footage of Charles Harris (Vietnam veteran) endorsing Shannon at the press conference with other leaders from Vietnam Veterans of Massachusetts Incorporated. Harris wears a pin reading "Vietnam Vets for Shannon." Harris talks about Shannon's sponsorship of a bill declaring a national POW-MIA recognition day. Footage of Shannon talking about the need to provide compensation to the victims of Agent Orange; about the need to improve treatment for veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Bennett reports that Shannon made no mention of Kerry; that Sam Mullen (Vietnam veteran) seemed to represent the sentiment of some anti-Kerry veterans. V: Footage of Mullen saying that Kerry had an outstanding record of service; that he finds Kerry's political commercials offensive; that Kerry's performance was not "above and beyond the call" of duty. Footage of Kerry saying that he has a lot of support from veterans; that different veterans have different beliefs. Bennett reports that the veterans' endorsement of Shannon was intended as a rejection of Kerry. V: Footage of Shannon saying that he did not serve in the military. Bennett stands in front of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial. Bennett reports that some veterans may not support Kerry because he was a fierce opponent of the Vietnam War, as well as a war hero. V: Footage of a Kerry political advertisement focusing on the Vietnam War. Bennett reports that some veterans think that Kerry is denouncing the soldiers as well as the war in this political advertisement. V: Footage of Kerry saying that the soldiers were the victims of the Vietnam War; that he has fought to gain recognition for the contribution of the Vietnam veterans. Bennett reports that many veterans are conflicted by Kerry's dual roles as a war hero and an upper-middle class, well-educated war protester. V: Shot of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial. 1:08:39: Lydon and Harris read the news headlines. Harris reports that Kerry won the endorsement of the Black Political Task Force in Roxbury. Lydon reports that Greg Bemis (arsonist) pleaded guilty to 68 counts of arson; that Bemis admitted to setting more than 100 fires in the Boston area as a member of an arson ring in 1982 and 1983; that the arson ring included former Boston area police officers and fire fighters who were protesting the cutbacks resulting from Proposition 2 1/2. Harris reports that the outbreak of hepatitis in Worcester is being complicated by a rare Delta Virus; that this form of hepatitis is very serious; that city officials are trying to institute a program to vaccinate drug abusers who use needles. 1:10:08: Harris gives the weather report. WGBH promotions for the The Ten O'Clock News and Live From Lincoln Center. 1:11:34: Lydon reads the national news headlines. Lydon reports that Walter Mondale (candidate for US President) accused Ronald Reagan (US President) of "moral McCarthyism" and religious zealotry; that Mondale asked for respect of his religion, family values, and patriotism. V: Footage of Mondale and Reagan addressing the B'nai Brith convention in Washington DC. Lydon reports that Reagan talked about the importance of the separation of church and state. Lydon reports that Gerald Ford (former US President) said that Mondale never complained when Jimmy Carter (former US President) mixed religion and politics. Lydon reports on a humorous exchange between Geraldine Ferraro (Mondale's running mate) and a high school student in Independence, Missouri. 1:12:51: Harris reads the international headlines. Harris reports that Shimon Peres (leader, Israeli Labour Party) and Yitzhak Shamir (leader, Israeli Likud Party) have agreed on the details of a power-sharing agreement. V: Footage of Peres and Shamir at a press conference. Harris reports that the Labour Party will handle defense issues and the Likud Party will handle economic issues; that the parties are optimistic that the agreement will work. Harris reports that the US vetoed a resolution by the United Nations Security Council; that the resolution would have demanded that Israel lift restrictions on the movement of people in Southern Lebanon. Harris reports that the US representative rejected the resolution because it did not address the activities of Syrian and Palestinian forces in other parts of Lebanon. 1:14:13: Report on the winning lottery numbers in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. 1:14:34: Christopher Lydon reports on the opening of Boston Public Schools. Lydon notes that it has been ten years since the beginning of busing and school desegregation. Lydon introduces in-studio guests Kim Marshall (Director for Curriculum, Boston Public Schools) and Loretta Roach (parent activist). Lydon notes that Marshall called the 1974 court order a "disaster" because it did not integrate the city with the suburbs. Marshall says that he thought few educational advancements could be made without integrating students of diverse social classes as well as students of different races. Marshall says that integration with the suburbs will never happen; that he is more realistic now. Marshall says that he is now concentrating on addressing the important issues on the educational agenda of the Boston Public Schools. Marshall talks about the need for good school principals, for high expectations for all students, for clear curriculum objectives, for test data about student performance, and for a safe climate in the schools. Marshall says that he was not focused enough on the realities of urban classrooms and schools in 1974. Lydon asks Roach what she has learned as a parent since the beginning of school desegregation in 1974. Roach says that the school system has improved; that there are some administrators in place who are concerned with accountability in education and high expectations for students. Roach says that the schools still have a poor record in dealing with racism. Roach says that the integration of social classes is not possible in Boston Public Schools; that the majority of students are African American, Hispanic, and poor. Lydon asks Roach if the court order has tried to address the needs of white students who have left the school system. Roach and Lydon agree that no one knows the whereabouts of the white students who are assigned to integrated public schools and do not show up. Marshall mentions the Jeremiah Burke School as an example of a school which has shown great improvements since desegregation. Marshall says that school administrators are focused on serving the students who are attending the schools. Lydon quotes Hubie Jones (Dean, Boston University) as saying that the Boston Public Schools are a "disaster." Marshall says that the system has just begun to make improvements; that the system has a very long way to go. Marshall notes that a new policy requires students to have an attendance rate of 85% in order to be promoted to the next grade level. Lydon quotes Robert Spillane (Superintendent, Boston Public Schools) as saying that Robert Dentler (Dean of Education at Boston University and advisor to the federal court) is a "social engineer." Lydon quotes Spillane's predictions that the Boston Public School System will continue to lose white students until it is once again a segregated system. Marshall says that the Boston Public School System has moved beyond school desegregation; that the school system needs to improve in order to attract new students. Roach says that urban schools across the country are in trouble; that African American parents are very concerned with the quality of education in the schools. Roach says that she is more concerned about quality education than she is about integrated schools. Roach says that she has invested a lot of time and effort in the Boston Public Schools; that she feels good about the kind of education her children are receiving. Lydon thanks Marshall and Roach. 1:22:43: Stock report: the Dow Jones average is listed at 1218.86; the volume of the New York Exchange is listed at 91,920,000. 1:23:03: Harris reports reports on school bus safety standards. Harris says that a school bus crash in January in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, could have been much worse without the safety standards adopted in 1977; that the National Transportation Safety Board has determined that Mary Jane Noons (Rehoboth bus driver) could not have avoided the crash; that the board is looking into further safety measures to protect children riding on school buses. 1:23:46: Harris reports that a Congressional committee will force Atlantic states to reduce their catches of striped bass or face a ban on striped bass fishing; that Maryland and Virginia lawmakers oppose quotas on striped bass; that Gary Studds (US Congressman from Massachusetts) and others support the quotas. Donna Hodge reports that Kenny Baker (fisherman) once fished primarily for striped bass. V: Footage of Baker preparing to go out on his boat in Woods Hole, Massachusetts; of Baker piloting his boat out of the harbor. Footage of Baker talking about the challenges involved in fishing for striped bass. Baker says that he feels fortunate to have been able to make a living from fishing for striped bass. Footage of Baker fishing off of his boat. Hodge says that the striped bass population has declined precipitously in Massachusetts. V: Footage of Philip Coates (Director, Massachusetts Marine Fisheries) talking about the decline of the striped bass population due to a combination of overfishing and environmental phenomena. Footage of Baker fishing from his boat. Shots of the coastline and the ocean. Hodge reports that striped bass migrate from the Chesapeake Bay to the North Atlantic every year; that an eleven-state coastal commission has been formed to protect the fish. Hodge reports that regulations on striped bass fishing are very tough in Massachusetts; that some fisherman believe the regulations are excessive. V: Shots of a man fishing off of a boat. Footage of Baker saying that regulations should be equally tough in every state; that a moratorium on fishing for striped bass should be imposed in all of the states along the coast. Shots of a bass being caught on a fisherman's line. Hodge reports that fishermen on Martha's Vineyard are preparing for the annual Striped Bass Derby. V: Footage of Owen DeLong (Emergency Striped Bass Council) saying that an immediate moratorium on striped bass fishing should be imposed along the whole east coast; that the Striped Bass Derby is inappropriate and morally wrong at this time. Footage of workers at a fish processing plant. Hodge reports on the need for uniform regulations among all states involved in striped bass fishing. Hodge reports that Claudine Schneider (US Congresswoman from Rhode Island) has proposed a three-year moratorium on striped bass fishing. V: Footage of DeLong saying that Studds, Edward Kennedy (US Senator) and John Chafee (US Senator) have all filed bills to regulate striped bass fishing; that strict regulations must be imposed in the next few months in order to save the species. Shots of an aquarium exhibit of striped bass. Harris reports that Studds has defended his plan as a compromise between those pushing for a moratorium on fishing and those who want no regulation at all. Harris notes that the organizers of the Striped Bass Derby on Martha's Vineyard have said that the competition will proceed as planned. 1:29:05: Harris and Lydon close the newscast. End credits roll.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 09/06/1984

Woza Albert

Description: End of an interview with South African playwrights and actors Percy Mtwa and Mbongi Ngema at the Spingold Theater at Brandeis University about their play Woza Albert. The two men describe reactions to the play in the South African townships. Each man talks about his future plans. They shoot cutaways. Several takes of reporter standup by the box office of the theater.
0:58:59: Visual: Tug Yourgrau interviews South African actors Percy Mtwa and Mbongeni Ngema at the Spingold Theater at Brandeis University about their play Woza Albert. The first actor says that the play has been well-received in South Africa; that the response has been enthusiastic in the township. The first actor says that people in the township have stood up to sing the national anthem after seeing the play. Yourgrau asks about the actors' future plans. The first actor says that he will write another play. The second actor says that he is writing a screenplay; that he also is involved in music. The second actor says that he has another play which he might bring to the US. Both men say that they have enjoyed touring in the US. The first actor says that he has always dreamed of visiting the US. The first actor says that the play has been well received in the US. The crew takes cutaway shots of Yourgrau and the two actors. 1:02:05: V: Theatergoers purchase tickets at the box office of the Spingold Theater. Yourgrau stands in front of the entrance of the theater. Yourgrau reports that Woza Albert is now playing at the Spingold Theater; that negotiations to bring the play to the Spingold Theater lasted two years. Yourgrau notes that Woza Albert is a satire about life under apartheid; that the play is an international hit. Yourgrau does several takes of his report for the news story. Theatergoers enter the theater.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/08/1984

Zwelakhe Sisulu

Description: Tug Yourgrau interviews Zwelakhe Sisulu (South African journalist) about reactions in the South African townships to the play Woza Albert. Sisulu discusses censorship and the facilities in the townships where the play has been staged. Yourgrau and Sisulu talk about why the South African government has failed to ban Woza Albert; they talk about the government's attitude toward Bishop Desmond Tutu (South African anti-apartheid leader). Yourgrau and Sisulu discuss the effect of the Soweto uprising on black political consciousness in South Africa and the related politicization of black theater in South Africa. Yourgrau and Sisulu analyze the relationship of black theater to political rallies in South Africa and to black political culture. Sisulu talks about the multi-lingual, multi-ethnic nature of black South African society. Sisulu discusses the banning of theater groups or theatrical works by the South African government. Sisulu says that black theater portrays the situation in South Africa more accurately than the US media.
0:00:59: Visual: Tug Yourgrau interviews Zwelakhe Sisulu (South African journalist). The two are sitting among shelves of books. Yourgrau asks about the reaction to Woza Albert in the South African townships. Sisulu says that the play has had a good run in the townships; that the actors have enjoyed a good rapport with the audiences in the townships; that the audience becomes part of the play when it is run in the townships. Yourgrau asks where plays are staged in the townships. Sisulu says that the play is run in community halls or church halls in the townships; that there are no theaters in the townships. Sisulu notes that the play must have the approval of the township superintendent in order to be staged in the community hall. Sisulu says that the facilities in the township are inadequate. Sisulu says that the township supervisors are appointees of the South African government; that they are members of the white ruling party. Yourgrau notes that Woza Albert has never been banned. Sisulu notes that Woza Albert has never been staged in a community hall; that community halls were burnt down in 1976. Sisulu says that Woza Albert was staged in church halls or independently owned halls in the black community. Sisulu says that community halls were rebuilt as administrative offices for the government. Yourgrau asks if the government has shown tolerance by not banning the play. Sisulu says that the black community is beginning to exhibit some power in South Africa; that the black community is more militant. Sisulu notes that the government is aware that a ban of the play could provoke a crisis. Yourgrau asks about the government's attitude toward Bishop Desmond Tutu (South African anti-apartheid leader). Sisulu says that the government would like to jail Tutu; that the government cannot act against Tutu because of his standing in the international community. Sisulu says that the government cannot ban Woza Albert because of its international reputation. 1:05:22: V: Yourgrau asks again about the reaction to Woza Albert in the black townships. Sisulu talks about the good rapport between the actors and the audience in the townships. Sisulu says that the audience is seeing their own lives played out on stage. Yourgrau asks about the effect of the Soweto uprising on black consciousness in South Africa. Sisulu asks Yourgrau to define "black consciousness." Yourgrau asks about black political consciousness. Sisulu says that South African blacks began to assert their power in 1976. Sisulu talks about the origins of protest theater and protest poetry in 1969. Sisulu says that contemporary black theater in South African focuses on social issues and apartheid; that earlier black theater focused on entertaining people. Sisulu says that 1976 brought changes in black political consciousness and in black theater. Yourgrau asks how black theater has changed. Sisulu talks about the change in black theater since 1976. Sisulu says that theater has turned away from singing and dancing; that one-man and two-man plays are common since 1976. Sisulu says that contemporary black theater in South Africa is concerned with creating a dialogue about apartheid and South African society. 1:09:59: V: Yourgrau asks if black theater is present at political rallies in South Africa. Sisulu says that a typical political rally in Soweto includes speeches, poetry, and theater. Sisulu notes that speeches are often in English; that the plays are performed in native languages; that theater is used to get the message across to all people. Sisulu says that theater has become a part of black political culture. Yourgrau asks about the multiple languages used in Woza Albert. Sisulu says that black South African culture is multi-lingual. Sisulu says that black South Africans are not divided by language or ethnicity; that residents of Soweto can communicate in several different languages. Yourgrau asks if theater groups have been banned in South Africa. Sisulu says that a theater group was banned along with other organizations in October of 1977. Sisulu says that the government would ban a particular script instead of all works by a particular playwright. Sisulu adds that township managers would refuse to give permission for some plays to be staged. Yourgrau asks if the recent strike by black workers in the Transvaal area is an isolated event. Sisulu says that the US media does not present an accurate depiction of events in South Africa; that the US media portrays the situation in terms of riots and disturbances. Sisulu says that there is a "low-scale civil war" in South Africa. Sisulu says that South African black theater accurately reflects the situation.
Collection: Ten O'Clock News
Date Created: 11/08/1984