"The Xs & Os of Race/ism": A Docu-series

We seek to PRODUCE A TRAILER to promote and raise the necessary funds to produce “The Xs & Os of Race/ism: A Docu-series”.   This docu-series explores race and its implications in five (88-110 minute) segments that highlight the perspectives of (1) African Americans (Native, Continental, and African peoples from the Diaspora), (2) Native Americans and Chicano Americans (also known as “Hispanics” and “Latinos”), (3) Asian Americans and Polynesian Americans, (4) European Americans, and lastly, (5) a celebration of diversity and multiculturalism.  Using biological anthropology and the scientific fact that ALL human beings are 99.9% genetically identical as the basis, the goal of the docu-series is to create a colorful tapestry of personal stories, expert insights, and pertinent data to address the effects of cultural and ethnic xenophobia and oppression.

We've written the treatment, solicited a top-notch crew, garnered the support and endorsement of the Cleveland Public Library, and have written our vision statement.  Now, we need to write the script for the trailer and produce it.  Then, once the trailer is produced we can raise funds for the larger project, which is the actual docu-series.

“Race” in the United States (and abroad) remains a troubling social subject.  In recent years, the election and reelection of President Barack Obama, deaths resulting from police brutality in the African American community and the consequential emergence of the Black Lives Matters Movement, and Donald Trump’s unexpected victory are evidence of America’s continuing “racial” turmoil.

Why?  Why is what amounts to complexion, such a touchstone for anger, fear, separation, and oppression—personal and systemic?  The Xs & Os of Race/ism explores this question and provocative subject through the lens of children, their families, and their teachers.  We will also interview scholars, activists, and other experts on the topic of “race.”