An African American man reads a road map while leaning against a car.

Premiering Oct. 13: ‘Driving While Black’ Explores Race, Space and Mobility in America

October 11, 2020 Alyssa Beno Leave a Comment

PBS Wisconsin invites you to explore the role of the automobile in the lives of African Americans during the 20th century with Driving While Black: Race, Space and Mobility in America, premiering 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13.

Created by acclaimed historian Dr. Gretchen Sorin and Emmy-winning director Ric Burns, Driving While Black examines the history of African Americans on the road during the last four decades of Jim Crow – one of the most turbulent and transformative periods in American racial, cultural, social and political history.

With themes echoing American society today, this history provides a window on issues of class, gender, law enforcement, discrimination, automobile culture and national identity. View a trailer and broadcast times here.

African-American Racial Justice

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Alyssa Beno

I am the editor of Airwaves, our monthly program guide for members. When I’m not highlighting our incredible programs, I’m pedaling the countryside, hiking at a state park, making soy candles, thrift shopping or hanging out with my husband and miniature schnauzer.

Andrew Carlson

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Becky Marburger

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Ian Lewitz

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Inga Witscher

Inga Witscher is a passionate Wisconsin dairy farmer, cheesemaker and host of PBS Wisconsin’s Around the Farm Table.

Luke Zahm

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Mark Riechers

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Pete Schwaba

Pete Schwaba is a stand-up comedian, writer, director and host of "Director's Cut" on PBS Wisconsin. His writing and directing credits include “A Guy Thing” and “The Godfather of Green Bay.” Pete’s TV writing credits include “Are you Smarter than a 5th Grader?” as Jeff Foxworthy’s writer/producer and the sports comedy show “Sports Soup.” Pete is married with two children and splits time between Los Angeles and the Midwest.

Samantha Nash

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As the education communications specialist for PBS Wisconsin Education, I get to support teachers by sharing incredible education resources with them. In my free time I do a lot of teaching and learning of my own – with a pair of escrima sticks in my hands at a martial arts gym.

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