The 1619 Project

A family’s tragic loss. A dramatic day in the life of a protestor. “Fear” explores how modern policing, surveillance and the criminalization of Black Americans draw roots from the slavery era fear of Black rebellion and centuries-long quest for freedom.

Nikole Hannah-Jones’ family and current labor battles are the lens for “Capitalism”, which explores how slavery formed the bedrock of American capitalism and how this foundation of brutality continues to permeate our deeply unequal economic system.

From Motown’s wide popularity to funk’s rebellious independence to today’s genre-breaking musicians, “Music” celebrates the “uncapturable spirit” of Black music and maintains that Black music IS American Music.

“Race” examines the construct of race as a political invention created to justify the economic exploitation of African people during slavery and promote white supremacy, while tracing the impact that has had on Black women’s bodies and reproductive lives.

Told through Pulitzer Prize-winning author Nikole Hannah-Jones’ personal story, historical events and the modern fights for voting rights, “Democracy” explores Black America’s centuries-long fight to democratize America and hold it to its founding ideals.