When I was a teenager I used to wear a bandana on my head, because it was the ‘80s and it seemed like a good idea at the time. One of my favorites, I’m embarrassed to say, was printed with a confederate flag. Granted, my fashion statement had nothing to do with the American South and everything to do with Billy Idol, but I should have known better. I thought I was a rebel without the proverbial cause, but in reality I was just another ignorant white kid so blinded by my own privilege that it never even occurred to me that the flag could be considered offensive—or worse, why.

Keeping future generations from wearing ignorance as an accessory is but one reason that Black History Month is so important; and while the Oscars may argue otherwise, the cinema can play a large part in telling African-American stories. Movies have shared the tragic sickness of slavery, the struggles of the civil rights movement and the injustice that is still so prominent today, and they have also celebrated triumphs, innovations and the ever-present hope of a better tomorrow.

For moms and dads looking for something for the whole family, here are four films for younger audiences:

 

To Kill a Mockingbird – Granted, this film does not feature people of color in starring roles, but it does center on the story of a white ally battling the hate and ignorance of 1930s Alabama. There are adult situations, but they are addressed in surprisingly subtle ways (aside from use of the N-word), while the lessons of conscience, justice, and empathy are very obvious. The film is Not Rated, but my boys have seen it since they were very young (of course, I named my son Atticus, so I could be biased).

 

42 – It is the inspiring story of baseball legend Jackie Robinson and the strength he showed in the face of overwhelming prejudice as he became the first black Major League Baseball player. The film is rated PG-13, and, again, the N-word is used in a way perhaps befitting of the time, but is incredibly uncomfortable by today’s standards. I watched 42 with my 9-year-old as it fulfilled his desire for sports-centric storytelling and allowed for bigger conversations about bigotry and society.

 

The Princess and the Frog – This animated classic from Disney featured the company’s first African-American princess. Set in the jazz era of New Orleans, this is a twist on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale “The Frog Prince.” The Princess and the Frog is rated G and can be seen by kids of all ages.

 

A Ballerina’s Tale – Telling the story of Misty Copeland, the first African-American woman to dance principal with the American Ballet Company, this documentary is full of beautiful dancing and ugly obstacles. The film is Not Rated, but should be fine for any child that appreciates dancing and inspiration.

What movie(s) do you recommend as vital Black History Month viewing?