Wednesday Events, National week on writing.

@ 1:00 I went to the Norris Community Panel. There were five community members who spoke and answered questions. They spoke on integration of the Norris/Commerce school system. Most of their family members became teachers, they said that for African Americans at that time (1940-1970) all you could be is a teacher. The oldest man, who's name I didn't write down, worked hard to bring change to that community. He brought people together to fight for the cleaning of arsenic polluted soil and water. He was in constant contact with the political leaders of the time, governor's of Texas, and presidential candidates. He wrote grants to bring in running water and electricity to the homes and churches. They talked about unofficial segregation of churches. It was a little disorganized but, they answered everyone's questions throughly.

@2:30 I went to the "Don't Be Silent," documentary viewing. It is a documentary about the "Shack People" outside of Rome during the 1960's and 70's. It was amazing. Firstly the cinematography was great. They used clips from that time as well as current video of the same people. A Catholic priest, Don Roberto decided to live with the "shack people." He started a school "725" where he helped them with their homework and then began teaching them his own curriculum. He thought them to have a political conscience. He had them write essays and poems speaking out on their circumstances. They sent it to the mayor, and fought for the right for a house. Don Roberto didn't want to live as the rich do, he is believes that materialism is the downfall of society. He also points out that the followers of Jesus were the poor, the outcasts and the people without hope. Those people are the ones that rise up to make a difference.