To assist with these goals, you will need to do the following ✓ Solved

To assist with these goals, you will need to do the following activities: 1) Watch the film: 13th is a documentary film on Netflix. This film available free of charge on YouTube as a community service. 2) Review how this film fits into your knowledge of the structure of our governmental system (Constitution) 3) Identify and examine some relevant history about the African American community in your analysis 4) Search The New York Times to ensure currency on the Black Lives Matter concept and information 5) Review the NASW Core Values and examine how these help you analyze and understand these concepts 6) Write your 7-paragraph response paper using the provided outline.

The documentary film "13th" (DuVernay, 2020) explores the intersection of race, social justice, and mass incarceration in the United States of America as exemplified in the 13th Amendment of the Constitution ((U.S. Const. amend. XIII). After watching this film and examining this movie within the context of American public policy, this paper will summarize the movie, discuss these issues within the structure, currency, social work perspective, and conclude by sharing the student's personal opinions on these matters.

Paper For Above Instructions

The documentary film "13th," directed by Ava DuVernay, offers a profound examination of the complex relationship between race, justice, and the American legal system through the lens of the 13th Amendment. This analysis of the film will adhere to the outlined seven-paragraph structure to ensure a comprehensive response that encapsulates the critical themes presented in the documentary while relating them to historical context, current events, and social work values.

Film Summary

"13th" delves into the historical roots of racial inequality in the United States, illustrating how systemic racism has evolved from slavery to mass incarceration. The film posits that the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery, contains a crucial clause that allows for involuntary servitude as punishment for crime. This loophole has been exploited, leading to the criminalization of African Americans relative to their white counterparts. The documentary features interviews with a range of activists, scholars, and politicians who highlight the systematic discrimination faced by African American communities. Through powerful imagery and archival footage, "13th" presents a compelling argument that America's prison system functions as a modern-day slavery mechanism, where Black bodies are disproportionately represented.

Structure

The structure of the American governmental system, especially as outlined by the Constitution, plays a critical role in understanding the themes of "13th." The 13th Amendment is pivotal, as its wording creates a legal foundation that has permitted racial discrimination within the criminal justice system. Amendments and laws such as the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act were designed to combat systemic inequality. However, challenges persist, as mechanisms for enforcement often fall short, suggesting a gap between legal reforms and actual social justice. The examination of these laws is essential for comprehending the ongoing issues around race and justice in the United States.

Relevant History

The film does an excellent job of situating contemporary issues within a broader historical context. It traces the lineage of racial oppression from slavery to the Jim Crow laws and the Civil Rights Movement. Post-Civil Rights America witnessed the introduction of drug laws that disproportionately affected African Americans, contributing to what some term the "New Jim Crow." The emphasis on punitive measures and the war on drugs has led to increased incarceration rates among Black individuals, revealing a pattern of discrimination and societal neglect. Understanding this history is crucial for acknowledging the structural inequalities that persist today.

Currency

To remain relevant in discussions about race and social justice, it is imperative to consider current contexts, such as the Black Lives Matter movement and recent events covered by outlets like The New York Times. The continued fight against systemic racism emphasizes the importance of community engagement and activism. Recent protests have highlighted issues from police brutality to voter suppression, which reflects the ongoing struggle against the vestiges of institutional racism. "13th" connects these current events to historical patterns, demonstrating that the fight for equality is far from over. Keeping up to date with credible news sources enhances one’s understanding of how these issues evolve and manifest in society today.

Social Work Perspective

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Core Values offer critical insight into how social workers approach issues of social justice. Values such as service, social justice, dignity, and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence all underscore the urgency of addressing systemic inequalities portrayed in "13th." As engaged citizens and social workers, it is essential to advocate for marginalized communities while promoting equity. Viewing the issues through a social work lens allows for a deeper understanding of how systemic oppression impacts individuals and communities, thus motivating effective action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "13th" serves as a crucial documentary that sheds light on the intersections of race, history, and public policy. Through this film, I have learned about the Constitution's role in perpetuating inequality, the historical realities of African American suffering, and the urgency of addressing current issues highlighted by movements like Black Lives Matter. This understanding deepens my commitment as both an engaged citizen and a future social worker to fight against injustice. By leveraging knowledge gained from the film, historical context, and current events, I am better equipped to contribute positively to social change. The insights from the NASW Core Values will guide my advocacy and efforts to empower those affected by systemic racism.

References

  • DuVernay, A. (Director). (2020, April 17). 13th [Video file].

  • NASW Code of Ethics. (2017, April 4). Retrieved February 10, 2021.

  • U.S. Const. amend. XIII.

  • Alexander, M. (2010). The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. The New Press.

  • Coates, T. (2014). The Case for Reparations. The Atlantic. Retrieved from https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2014/06/the-case-for-reparations/361631/

  • Rothstein, R. (2017). The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America. Liveright Publishing.

  • Parker, K., & Horowitz, J. (2020). Amid protests, Americans’ views of police, race relations, and the criminal justice system. Pew Research Center.

  • Linkins, J. (2020). Black Lives Matter’s Importance in 2020. The Huffington Post. Retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/black-lives-matter_n_5ef8cc12c5b6c3e2042c93b8

  • McCarthy, J. (2021). Racial Justice and the Role of the Social Worker. Social Work Today.

  • Watson, D. (2019). The System is Not Broken: Race, Criminal Justice, and Society. Stanford University Press.