I, Too embarks on a journey with Dr. Carol Anderson, a New York Times best-selling author and professor at Emory University, who seeks to uncover the truth behind America's troubled history. The film delves into the persistent mythologies and contradictions within American society, particularly the disparity between the nation's ideals and its actions. Dr. Anderson, having grown up in a military family during the civil rights movement, witnessed firsthand the contradictions of a country that professed freedom and equality while denying these very rights to many of its citizens. Her father's valor as a WWII veteran and her brother's service in Vietnam only intensified the dilemma of loving a country that did not reciprocate that love.
I had one issue with I, Too: I could not make the leap Dr. Anderson wanted me to make in terms of aim and severity. The comparison of the January 6th Capitol Riot to several mass lynchings didn’t entirely click for me. I can see how similar rhetoric was used to stir up support for violent action and sow chaos. I can see how both are massive injustices. Where things start to fall apart for me is the lack of legal prosecution for these historic lynchings, and the fact that votes aren’t worth the same as human lives. Equating these disparate events simply in terms of harm done feels very flat-footed.
There were some glimpses of conversation about how many black people felt less shocked than white people by the events of January 6th because of historic violent oppression against their communities, but these statements seem quickly forgotten as the film moves on. My frustration comes from a lack of further analysis. It almost seems to tack on the January 6th stuff just to get some additional attention from those interested in that event, and it always bugs me when a history documentary wastes time trying to be trendy: It eats into the time spent on the interesting and informative bits.
The historical analysis and breakdowns of several notable mass killings of black Americans during the Reconstruction and Jim Crow eras including Wilmington, Hamburg, and Ocoee was top-notch, and as reviews or introductions to these dark chapters of American history, I, Too was outstanding. Library patrons or students looking for a documentary that discusses some understudied episodes from American history or the struggle of trying to find primary sources discussing the overt racism and violence of the Jim Crow era will be very pleased to see I, Too. This is another area where the documentary really shines. Highly Recommended.
How does I, Too align with public libraries’ collection development goals?
I, Too supports collection development by filling gaps in materials addressing Reconstruction, Jim Crow, and lesser-known incidents of racial violence in American history. Its focus on underrepresented narratives and primary source challenges makes it a valuable addition for public and academic libraries seeking to diversify their documentary offerings on U.S. history and civil rights.
Which college courses and majors could most effectively incorporate I, Too?
This documentary would be particularly useful in courses such as:
- American History, especially units on Reconstruction and Jim Crow
- African American Studies, focusing on systemic racism and community resilience
- Political Science, examining civil rights and voter suppression
- Sociology, exploring the intersections of race, justice, and societal myths
- Media Studies, analyzing how historical narratives are framed in documentaries
How might I, Too serve as programming for Parks and Rec programs?
I, Too offers an opportunity for Parks and Recreation programs to host thought-provoking screenings that explore American history and social justice. It could be paired with panel discussions featuring historians or community leaders, promoting dialogue on equality and civil rights. Such events align with many organizations' missions to educate and foster inclusivity within communities.
What considerations are needed for movie licensing and PPR for screenings of I, Too?
To host public screenings in settings like libraries, college campuses, or Parks and Rec events, obtaining Public Performance Rights (PPR) is essential. Movie licensing for I, Too ensures that institutions can legally show the film to groups, whether for educational purposes or as part of a special event. This step is crucial for compliance and to support the filmmakers.
How can I, Too enhance special events on college campuses?
College campuses could use I, Too as the centerpiece for public screening events such as:
- Black History Month programs
- Civil Rights lectures or symposiums
- Cross-disciplinary collaborations between History, Sociology, and Political Science departments
- Student-organized discussions on systemic racism and its historical context
These events could include expert panels, Q&A sessions, or tie-ins with other campus initiatives on diversity and inclusion.
Why should I, Too be considered for movie licensing in educational and community settings?
The documentary’s ability to unpack complex topics like systemic racism, the Reconstruction era, and the January 6th Capitol Riot makes it a versatile resource for educational screenings. Its high-quality historical analysis ensures broad appeal to educators, community leaders, and audiences interested in civil rights and social justice, making it an excellent candidate for licensing in schools, libraries, and community centers.