We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Tristan Cabello, PhD

The #BlackLivesMatter movement is the most significant political movement in African American life in the United States in the last fifty years. BLM leaders denounced anti-black racism, white supremacy, and police brutality and reshaped how we think about gender, sexuality, social justice, economic injustice, and crime. The movement is grounded in a long history of African American activism. From slave revolts to the Black Panther Party, from the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus, to the eruption of the #BLM Movements, this course is an interdisciplinary and historical exploration of the BlackLivesMatter movement.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

The Fundamentals of a Racist Culture
In this module, learners will study the fundamentals of a "Racist Culture." Learners will analyze the history of racism in America, the making of the conservative movement and the diversity of African American communities. Learners must receive a passing grade (80%) on all quizzes. Discussion boards are optional.
Read more
Race, Police and Justice in the United States
In this module, learners will study the relationship between race and policing in the United States, by analyzing the history of policing, racial relations during the Obama Presidency and the tensions revealed by the killing of Trayvon Martin. Learners must receive a passing grade (80%) on all quizzes. Discussion boards are optional.
Building The #BlackLivesMatter Movement
In this module, learners will study the politics, the people and the organization of the Black Lives Matter movement. Learners must receive a passing grade (80%) on all quizzes. Discussion boards are optional.
The Future of #BlackLivesMatter
In this module, learners will study the future of the Black Lives Matter movement, by analyzing the George Floyd moment, the globalization of the movement, and future political options. Learners must receive a passing grade (80%) on all quizzes. Discussion boards are optional.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
In-depth study of the #BlackLivesMatter movement, its history, politics, people, and organization
Introduces learners to the fundamentals of a "Racist Culture" and its impact on American society
Explores the relationship between race, policing, and justice in the United States
Provides insights into the future of the #BlackLivesMatter movement, examining its potential impact on social and political change
Optional discussion boards encourage student engagement and deeper exploration of the course material
Requires a passing grade on all quizzes, ensuring that learners retain key concepts and information

Save this course

Save Black Lives Matter to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

Reviews summary

Black lives matter course

Learners say this course provides a detailed understanding of the Black Lives Matter movement. The informative videos and engaging assignments help learners grasp the history of racism and the impact of racist policy. Students especially appreciate the multi-media approach to learning.
Engaging learning experience with videos, articles, and quizzes.
"We liked the multi-media approach to learning."
"The content was exceptional and well laid out."
"I really enjoyed this class because it provided an overview of the civil rights movement."
Provides in-depth knowledge of the Black Lives Matter movement.
"This course provides a detailed understanding of the Black Lives Matter movement."
"It gave a lot of history and knowledge that was given on how the african american people where treated."
"I now understand much more about the Black Lives Matter movement and the racism that led to the present moment."
May not provide enough in-depth analysis for some learners.
"This course was okay, but was lacking substantive content."
"The course is shallow, becoming borderline insulting in its shallowness from time to time."
Some links to external resources may not be working.
"Some links don't open and I shouldn't have to register to other outlets to read material that I paid for through this course."
"The content was exceptional and well laid out. I did not like the fact there was broken links from some of the readings, or that you needed to subscribe to some of the sites in order to read the articles."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Black Lives Matter with these activities:
Review Historical Context
Build a strong foundation for understanding the #BlackLivesMatter movement by reviewing key historical events and context.
Show steps
  • Read books or articles about African American history.
  • Watch documentaries or films about historical events related to race and social justice.
  • Visit historical sites or museums.
  • Attend lectures or workshops on African American history.
Review the history of racism in the United States
Build a strong foundation for understanding the origins and evolution of racism in the United States.
Browse courses on History
Show steps
  • Read historical texts and articles.
  • Review online resources.
  • Discuss the topic with classmates or friends.
Online Resources Exploration
Expand your knowledge of the #BlackLivesMatter movement by exploring online resources such as documentaries, podcasts, and articles.
Show steps
  • Identify a topic or aspect of the #BlackLivesMatter movement that you want to learn more about.
  • Search for and select reputable online resources such as documentaries, podcasts, or articles.
  • Consume the selected resources and take notes on the key points.
  • Summarize your findings and share them with a classmate or mentor.
11 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 14 activities
Read Michelle Alexander's "The New Jim Crow"
Discuss the history of racial injustice in the United States and its impact on the Black Lives Matter movement.
Show steps
  • Summarize the main arguments of the book.
  • Identify the ways in which mass incarceration contributes to racial inequality.
Watch documentaries and films about the Black Lives Matter movement
Gain insights into the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Browse courses on Documentary Filmmaking
Show steps
  • Identify relevant documentaries and films.
  • Watch and take notes on the documentaries and films.
  • Discuss the documentaries and films with classmates or friends.
Attend a Black Lives Matter rally or protest
Experience firsthand the passion and dedication of Black Lives Matter activists.
Browse courses on Civic Engagement
Show steps
  • Research upcoming Black Lives Matter rallies or protests.
  • Attend and participate in the rally or protest.
  • Share your experience with classmates or friends.
Create a collection of resources on Black Lives Matter
Develop research and organizational skills by compiling a comprehensive collection of resources related to Black Lives Matter.
Browse courses on Research Methods
Show steps
  • Identify and gather relevant resources.
  • Organize the resources into a coherent collection.
  • Share the collection with classmates or friends.
Study Group
Enhance your understanding of the course material and connect with your peers by forming a study group.
Show steps
  • Find a group of classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
  • Set regular meeting times and locations.
  • Review the course materials together.
  • Discuss key concepts and ideas.
  • Help each other understand challenging topics.
Discussion Post
Deepen your understanding of the course material by actively engaging in discussions with your peers.
Show steps
  • Read the assigned readings and watch the lecture videos.
  • Formulate your own thoughts and perspectives on the topic.
  • Write a discussion post that shares your insights.
  • Respond to at least two classmates' posts.
Practice Quizzing
Reinforce your understanding of the key concepts covered in each module by completing practice quizzes.
Show steps
  • Review the module materials.
  • Take the practice quiz.
  • Review your answers and identify areas for improvement.
  • Re-study the relevant materials.
Create a social media campaign to raise awareness about Black Lives Matter
Develop skills in crafting persuasive messages and utilizing social media platforms to advocate for social change.
Browse courses on Social Activism
Show steps
  • Define the target audience for the campaign.
  • Develop a social media strategy.
  • Create engaging content.
  • Monitor and evaluate the campaign's progress.
Annotated Bibliography
Enhance your research skills and deepen your understanding of the course material by creating an annotated bibliography of relevant sources.
Show steps
  • Identify and gather scholarly articles, books, and other relevant sources related to the #BlackLivesMatter movement.
  • Read and analyze each source.
  • Write annotations that summarize and evaluate the sources.
  • Organize the annotations into a cohesive bibliography.
Policy Brief
Apply your knowledge of the #BlackLivesMatter movement to a real-world context by drafting a policy brief.
Show steps
  • Research a specific policy issue related to the #BlackLivesMatter movement.
  • Develop a policy proposal that addresses the issue.
  • Write a policy brief that outlines your proposal, its rationale, and potential impact.
  • Share your policy brief with others for feedback.
  • Revise and finalize your policy brief.
Contribute to Open Source Projects
Gain practical experience and contribute to the #BlackLivesMatter movement by participating in open source projects.
Show steps
  • Identify open source projects related to the #BlackLivesMatter movement.
  • Review the project documentation and codebase.
  • Identify areas where you can contribute.
  • Make code contributions and/or documentation improvements.
  • Engage with the project community and seek feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Black Lives Matter will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Activist
Activists work to bring about social or political change. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the history, strategies, and impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to effectively develop and implement strategies for social change.
Policy Analyst
Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a comprehensive examination of the policy implications of the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to effectively analyze and advocate for policies that promote racial equity and social justice.
Diversity and Inclusion Manager
Diversity and Inclusion Managers develop and implement strategies to promote diversity and inclusion within organizations. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and impact of systemic racism in the United States, enabling you to effectively develop and implement strategies to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study political systems and processes. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides an in-depth examination of the political aspects of the Black Lives Matter movement, including its impact on public policy and electoral politics.
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the cultural and historical factors that have shaped the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to conduct research and analysis on the movement and its impact on society.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers lead and manage nonprofit organizations. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the mission, strategies, and impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to effectively manage and lead nonprofit organizations working to advance racial justice.
Community Organizer
Community Organizers work with communities to identify and address issues that are important to them. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the history, strategies, and impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to effectively organize and mobilize communities to fight for social justice.
Social Worker
Social Workers help people cope with personal and social problems. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides insight into the social and economic factors that contribute to racial inequality, enabling you to better understand and address the needs of your clients.
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events and issues. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the history and current state of the Black Lives Matter movement, enabling you to effectively report on related issues.
Urban Planner
Urban Planners design and plan cities and towns. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the social and economic factors that contribute to racial inequality in urban areas, enabling you to design and plan cities that are more equitable and just.
Educator
Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool to college. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and impact of systemic racism in the United States, equipping you to teach your students about these important issues and inspire them to become active agents for change.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a deep understanding of the media landscape and how to effectively communicate about issues related to race and social justice, enabling you to successfully manage the public relations of organizations working in this field.
Historian
A Historian is an expert in the research and documentation of history. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful to you if you are interested in specializing in African American history, as it provides an in-depth exploration of the movement's history and its impact on American society.
Lawyer
Lawyers provide legal advice, represent clients in court, and draft legal documents. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues surrounding racial discrimination and police brutality, equipping you to effectively advocate for your clients.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts gather, interpret, and present data to help businesses make informed decisions. The Black Lives Matter course at John Hopkins University may be useful because it teaches students how to analyze data related to racism and social justice and understand its impact on various aspects of society.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Black Lives Matter.
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the history and impact of mass incarceration in the United States, particularly on African American communities. It valuable resource for understanding the origins and consequences of systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
This classic work by James Baldwin collection of essays that explore the complexities of race and identity in America. It provides a deep and insightful analysis of the history and impact of racism, as well as the challenges faced by African Americans in the mid-20th century.
Provides a historical overview of the concept of whiteness in America, tracing its origins and development from the colonial era to the present day. It valuable resource for understanding the social and political construction of race and the ways in which it has shaped American society.
Analyzes the history and impact of policing and criminal justice policies on African American men in the United States. It provides a critical examination of the ways in which racism and systemic bias have shaped the experiences of African Americans in the criminal justice system.
This classic work by W.E.B. Du Bois collection of essays that explore the experiences and struggles of African Americans in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It provides a valuable historical perspective on the origins and impact of racism in the United States.
Explores the concept of white fragility and its impact on conversations about race in America. It provides insights into the ways in which white people often react to discussions about racism and offers strategies for engaging in more productive and meaningful dialogue.
Examines the history of government policies and practices that have contributed to racial segregation in American cities. It provides a detailed account of the ways in which federal, state, and local governments have played a role in creating and maintaining racial inequality.
Provides a comprehensive history of racist ideas in America, from the colonial era to the present day. It traces the evolution of racism and its impact on American society, offering a deeper understanding of the roots of racial inequality.
Analyzes the history of racial inequality and urban decline in Detroit during the postwar era. It provides a detailed account of the factors that contributed to the city's racial segregation and economic challenges, offering insights into the broader dynamics of racial inequality in American cities.
Provides a concise history of the Black Power Movement in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. It explores the origins, goals, and strategies of the movement, as well as its impact on American politics and society.
Provides a legal analysis of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, examining its provisions, legislative history, and impact. It offers a detailed account of the legal challenges to the Act and its significance in the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement.
This report by the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders investigates the causes of the urban riots that occurred in the United States during the 1960s. It provides a detailed analysis of the social and economic factors that contributed to the riots and offers recommendations for addressing the underlying causes of racial inequality.
Examines the changing nature of black identity and culture in America. It explores the ways in which African Americans have navigated the challenges of racism and inequality and have forged a distinct cultural and political identity.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Black Lives Matter.
Black Performance as Social Protest
From Freedom Rides to Ferguson: Narratives of Nonviolence...
GL405: The American Renaissan
Race and Cultural Diversity in American Life and History
Reimagining Blackness and Architecture
America Through Foreign Eyes
Greeks, American Options and Volatility
Interdisciplinary Teaching with Museum Objects
Soul Food 101 Certificate Culinary Training Course
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser