CNN’s groundbreaking Black in America initiative expands this month with two in-depth documentaries and a special forum with Essence magazine. Black in America launched in April with the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The series encompasses a variety of approaches to examining how blacks have fared since King‘s death. Programming includes documentaries, news reports, an online multimedia special section showcasing video exclusives, viewer videos, and a lively 90-minute forum on what lies ahead for Blacks.
The forum was taped at the recent Essence Music Festival and features provocative discussions by some of the most influential names in Black America including Bishop T.D. Jakes, Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Tom Joyner, Hill Harper and others.
CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien has spent more than a year tracking the stories of black men and women from all walks of life in this country that will be showcased in the series.
“The series has critical information for people of all races – the ‘Black in America’ experience is an American story,” said O’Brien. “This is a raw and intimate look at stories that everyone will be able to relate to. I hope this documentary will open doors to dialogue and understanding.”
“We discovered while researching these projects that there are many successes in economic achievement and careers, but there are those who are left behind, creating two black Americas,” said Mark Nelson, vice president and senior executive producer for CNN Productions. “We hope viewers will come away with a better understanding of who’s ‘making it’ and why.”
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