The Powerbroker: Whitney Young's Fight for Civil Rights

An intellectual, charming, and charismatic figure, Whitney Young (1921-1971) was the "inside man" at the height of America's Civil Rights movement. Narrated by Alfre Woodard, filmmakers Christine Khalafian and Taylor Hamilton's PBS-aired documentary pays tribute to an overlooked pioneer for equality. As head of the National Urban League, Young spoke the same language as white business leaders, arguing that integration was good for business. Raised in a Kentucky setting that proved to be an oasis from the worst white prejudice of the time, Young preached an "economic based revolution" to the black community. He acted as a facilitator for the landmark 1963 March on Washington, reassuring a nervous John F. Kennedy, who feared both backlash and violence. Always a results-oriented person, Young won the trust of Lyndon Johnson, who was uneasy with Martin Luther King's moral approach to civil rights issues. Young proposed a "domestic Marshall Plan" to LBJ, aimed at reducing poverty, while also promoting education and equal opportunity. LBJ incorporated many of Young's suggestions into his Great Society programs. Unfortunately, the Civil Rights and Voting Rights acts couldn't prevent the riots in Watts, CA, and other American cities, and the rise of black radicals led to Young being scorned as an Uncle Tom and "Oreo cookie." At the same time, the Vietnam War distracted LBJ and led to cutbacks of social programs. Young also split with King when the latter voiced resounding disapproval of the war. Young never had the same close relationship with the White House after Nixon took office, and while on a trip to Africa, suffered a sudden and untimely death. While it's tempting to speculate what might have happened if Young had survived, civil rights leaders and historians deservedly praise his enormous contributions to the cause. Recommended. [Note: this is also available with public performance rights for $350 from Filmakers Library at www.academicvideostore.com.] Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)