Instructions: View Ava Du Vernay's documentary entitled13th. Respond to the questions below. Be sure to write in proper paragraph format.

Link to the documentary:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krfcq5pF8u8

1. How did you feel after viewing13th? Did you feel helpless, inspired, stirred to action, or a combination of all three? Do you think the message of the documentary was ultimately hopeful? Why or why not?

1. How does13th characterize the American criminal justice system and political institutions? How did this film shape your understanding of the prison system? Was there a particular case or series of facts that altered or challenged any of your pre-existing views? Explain.

1. How much did you know about the war on drugs and war on crime before watching the film? Were you surprised to learn about the racial underpinnings of these legislative policies, and the active role of the state in criminalizing and targeting communities of colour?

1. How do you think media and popular culture representations of Black Americans, particularly of Black men, have contributed to a dangerous climate of fear and anxiety? (Think back to the way George Zimmerman was heard describing Trayvon Martin, or the media frenzy around the Central Park Five that resulted in their wrongful imprisonment.) How can we challenge these instances of racism and dehumanization?

1. Many politicians, including the Clintons, Newt Gingrich, and Charles Rangel in this film, have apologized for their role in promoting devastating "tough on crime" legislation. Considering the billions of dollars made off the imprisonment of people, the ongoing practice of prison labour, and the cases of unjust imprisonment (as in the tragic case of Kalief Browder), is an empty apology enough? Is America compelled to repay these communities and families in a more material, restorative way? Why or why not?