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  • 2020-05-18
Understanding the Connotations of African-American History Month through the Films of Denzel Washington
Understanding the Connotations of African-American History Month through the Films of Denzel Washington

To commemorate African-American History Month, also known as Black History Month, the NCL and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) co-organized a series of screenings of Denzel Washington films for February and March 2020. African-American History Month is celebrated in the United States each February to commemorate the struggle of countless African Americans to overcome slavery, prejudice, and poverty, and to look back on the contributions African Americans have made to American cultural and political life .

In 1926, renowned scholar and historian Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week, choosing the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. By 1976, the year the United States celebrated the 200th anniversary of its founding, the commemorations had been expanded and renamed “Black History Month,” finally receiving official recognition that year.

Four classic Denzel Washington films, “Glory,” “Mo' Better Blues,” “Crimson Tide,” and “The Great Debaters” were screened in NCL’s International Conference Hall, two on the afternoon of February 22, followed by a further two on March 7. Between screenings, AIT Cultural Affairs Officer, Mr. Eric Aldrich, led an audience discussion and appreciation of the films and took questions from the lively audience, who found these screenings and discussions of great help in better understanding the significance of African-American History Month. In response to the ongoing global Covid-19 epidemic, as the audience arrived at each event, their temperatures were monitored, alcohol-based handwash provided, and they were urged to put on masks.

Last Update Time:2020-05-26
  • NCL staff monitor the temperature of each audience member as they arrive.
    NCL staff monitor the temperature of each audience member as they arrive.
  • AIT Cultural Affairs Officer, Eric Aldrich, comments on a film after a screening.
    AIT Cultural Affairs Officer, Eric Aldrich, comments on a film after a screening.
  • Discussion during Denzel Washington film screenings to commemorate African-American History Month.
    Discussion during Denzel Washington film screenings to commemorate African-American History Month.
  • Q&A
    Q&A
  • Officer Eric Aldrich photographed with participant.
    Officer Eric Aldrich photographed with participant.
  • Officer Eric Aldrich photographed with participant.
    Officer Eric Aldrich photographed with participant.