1987-1993 Broadcast Seasons

Black Youth
January 1987

North Carolina Public Television introduces the Black Issues Forum. This panel discussion is a new series that will examine the problems and concerns of the black community, explore ways to improve their economic, social and political world, and address issues that the black community finds pertinent.

"Black Youth, A Resource for North Carolina" examines the current status of black youth and their potential to lead successful lives. The panel suggests and encourages opportunities for black youth that may change their negative outlook on life.

The panel identifies education as a necessary step in helping black youth cross hurdles and achieve new possibilities. The panel recognizes that the education system, family, church, and community have important roles to play in helping black youth achieve levels of success. Their responsibilities include taking time out to get parents involved in the school system, building the student's self-esteem through leadership workshops, opening up the corporate world to provide mentor programs for minority students, and fighting to change the black image on television. Dr. Lloyd Hackely, the introducer of the forum and chancellor of Fayetteville State University states, "We are not hopeless in the struggle to achieve better life chances for our children. As a hope, our churches and communities must help our children gain the motivation, skill, and confidence to cope well in academics."

In working toward a brighter future, social, political, and economic restraints that are common to the black community and its youth must be removed. Dr. Richard Hunter, professor of education at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill explains, "We need to understand that there are impediments and sociological problems that are among our people. Nonetheless, we must always be conscious of the fact that we can overcome socioeconomic barriers and rise up and produce leaders that can lead this country, this state, and this nation. "

PANELISTS:

James Blue, a student at Hillside Senior High School in Durham, N.C.

The Rev. Dr. David Forbes, Sr., senior minister of the Martin Street Baptist Church in Raleigh, N.C.

Dr. Cleveland Hammonds, superintendent of the Durham City Schools

Dr. Richard C. Hunter, professor of education at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Dr. Jimmy Jenkins, chancellor of Elizabeth City State University

Dr. Elizabeth Koontz, retired assistant Superintendent of the N.C. State Department of Public Instruction

Kimberly West, a student at Enloe Senior High School in Raleigh, N.C.

The panel discussion was moderated by Valeria L. Lee, Chair of the University of North Carolina Center for Public Television and Program Development Officer for the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation. The Executive Producer is Dr. Paul Vandergrift.