At a time when the mainstream media chose not to cover widespread discrimination and violence towards blacks, African-American journalists made many brave decisions to both cover and publish violent content. Because of the work of the black press, the American public was exposed to the discrimination facing, and horrendous acts of violence suffered by, African-Americans. This public awareness would eventually lead to the passage of the Civil Rights Act.
This is not a chronological history lesson. This lesson, instead, asks students to critically examine a historical event with which they are already familiar. Prior to this lesson, students should have a basic understanding of the Civil Rights Movement.
The lesson uses the following videos. For additional videos, a historical timeline on the topic and more, view Moments of Truth: Civil Rights.