Discussion Guides for CNN's "Black in America"

CNN premiered its two Black in America documentaries, "The Black Woman and Family" and "The Black Man," this week.

They offer a fresh analysis from new voices about the real lives behind the stereotypes, statistics and identity politics that frequently frame the national dialogue about Black America.



Parents and teachers should know that CNN is offering overview questions and discussion activities to facilitate discussion with your pre-teen and teenaged children.

In "The Black Woman & Family", Soledad O'Brien explores the varied experiences of black women and families and investigates the reasons behind the disturbing statistics on single parenthood, disparities between black and white students in schools, and the devastating toll of HIV/AIDS. O'Brien reports on the progress of black women in the workplace and the status of the black middle class. Click here to access discussion questions for Black in America: The Black Woman & Family.

In "The Black Man," Soledad evaluates the state of black men in America and explores the controversial topics of black men and fatherhood; disparities between blacks and whites in educational, career and financial achievement; and factors leading to the dramatic rates of black male incarceration. The documentary also examines the achievements of black men and the importance of the positive influences of black fathers. Click here to access discussion questions for Black in America: The Black Man.