By Ashley Brown
To educate and inspire, the new documentary âBrown Hands, Black Schoolsâ aims to explain Historically Black Colleges and Universitiesâ cultural impact and historical significance to young children. The film is adapted from a published childrenâs book by Latoya Turner, a Central State University alumna.
Aria and Walter, the bookâs two main characters, are followed as they visit a cousin at a Homecoming celebration. While there, the two experience the vibrancy of marching bands, step shows, and football games. Producer Angela Davis says it is important to introduce children to HBCUs early. âA lot of young people donât find out about historically black colleges and universities. And so theyâre well into their high school years,â she told WDTN.
The filmmakers blended live-action and animation to bring the story to life. âWe also wanted kids to know that this isnât imaginary; this is real,â Davis explained to WDTN.
Davis and her team delve into the triumphs of HBCU alumni who have made significant contributions in various fieldsâfrom inventors like Tuskegee University graduate Lonnie Johnson, creator of the Super Soaker, to influential figures in politics, science, and the arts. Along with celebrating the joys of HBCU culture, the film also confronts the struggles faced by these institutions throughout history.
The documentary team is collaborating with schools and libraries nationwide to offer free screenings and literacy workshops. The âBrown Hands, Black Schoolsâ premiere screening will take place at the Dayton Metro Library.
âItâs up to us to make sure that our young people understand their greatness,â Davis said. âWe have to be the village. And this book and our film is a part of that village helping our young people understand their greatness.â