The titular talk refers to the conversation that most black parents feel they must have with their children about possible encounters with the police. Kids are told not to make any sudden moves, keep hands in view at all times, and don't argue or talk back. Unfortunately, even these precautions have not prevented an alarming number of tragic police-related shootings in recent years. Filmmakers Sam Pollard's PBS-aired documentary describes the "survival conversation" that wasn't supposed to be necessary in the much-hyped post-racial society that many predicted would arrive after Obama was elected president in 2008. Despite comprising only about 6 percent of the nation's population, some 33 percent of police shooting victims are African American, and the situation is almost as bad in the Hispanic community. In 2014, 12-year-old Tamir Rice was shot and killed when he pointed a toy gun at police and bystanders, and new cases continue to arise. Everyone, it seems, has a gun, and domestic arguments and traffic stops can get ugly fast, with profanities and arguments flying hot and heavy on both sides. Some accuse the police of being "badge heavy," i.e., using their badge as a kind of club, while police say it's "better to be tried by 12, than carried by six." The Talk puts out a call for cultural diversity education with an emphasis on real-life street training—not just academy experience. People want to see more accountability, with more minority officers patrolling black communities. The documentary includes comments from actress Rosie Perez, film director John Singleton, and police officers who believe in the need for a renewed commitment to having a "servant's heart." Offering a good starting point for a candid discussion, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)
The Talk: Race in America
(2017) 120 min. DVD: $24.99 ($54.99 w/PPR). PBS Video. ISBN: 978-1-5317-0033-1. Volume 32, Issue 5
The Talk: Race in America
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