Montel Williams has led a campaign to have 12 Years a Slave taught in public high schools across the US.
Director Steve McQueen’s movie dramatises the true story of Solomon Northup, who survived being illegally sold into slavery.
Former chatshow host Williams’s advocacy has led the National School Boards Association (NSBA) to adopt the movie, book and a study guide for classrooms beginning in the autumn.
“12 Years a Slave is one of the most impactful films in recent memory, and I am honoured to have been able to bring together Fox Searchlight and National School Boards Association to maximize its educational potential,” Williams said in a press release.
He continued: “When Hollywood is at its best, the power of the movies can be harnessed into a powerful educational tool.
“This film uniquely highlights a shameful period in American history, and in doing so will evoke in students a desire to not repeat the evils of the past while inspiring them to dream big of a better and brighter future, and I’m proud to be a part of that.”
Filmmaker McQueen added that it has been his “dream” to see 12 Years a Slave taught in classrooms.
“I am immensely grateful to Montel Williams and the National School Boards Association for making this dream a reality and for sharing Solomon Northup’s story with today’s generation,” the director said.
Williams previously led a similar movement to have the classic Civil War film Glory taught in schools.
12 Years a Slave recently won Best Film at the 67th British Academy Film Awards, and is nominated for the same prize at this weekend’s Oscars.
Source: Digital Spy
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