EGL369: Positioning Black Identity, critically analyzes the tensions surrounding the portrayal of Black identity in the United States through literature and media. Taught by Dr. Neisha Terry Young, the course’s final assignment featured five collaborative group projects designed to address themes of oppression by amplifying Black voices against the dominant White narratives in Black-centered films.

I had the honor of viewing these projects created by the talented students in Dr. Young’s class, and I walked away with an enlightened perspective on film narratives and new additions to my Letterboxd watchlist. The projects focused on iconic films such as Black Panther (2018), Coming to America (1988), Hidden Figures (2016), The Help (2011), and Get Out (2017).

Each group delved into themes about Black oppression, drawing connections between the films and real-world experiences. Showing that films can oftentimes parallel reality, the groups drew historical or personal connections from their films. The groups showed us clips of their podcast episodes where they analyzed their themes, putting a unique spin on group work that I’ve never seen before in the classroom.

Podcasting allows students to analyze in a more laid-back and casual setting. Compared to traditional and formal presentations, I think podcasting is an important medium to allow students to deep-dive into certain topics in a more comfortable setting. It also gives each student the power to both amplify marginalized voices against dominant narratives and share unique experiences.