POWER TO THE PEOPLE
PROGRAMME 3: K TO O
King, Martin Luther
This segment uses archive footage to illustrate the development and impact of the civil rights movement in America. It demonstrates the power of numbers and the role of the media in bringing about social change. Anthony Thomas reveals that he is using the spirit of hip hop to teach King's principles and mobilise people in the streets. Ex-footballer Paul Elliott is equally committed to King's principles and is working to achieve them through the 'Show Racism the Red Card' campaign.
Lyrics
This segment is about protest songs – why people write them and what makes them endure. Nerina Pallot explains why she wrote 'Everyone Has Gone To War'. Paul Stokes looks at the differences between modern protest songs and those of the 1960s. The segment includes clips of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Eminem.
Mahatma Gandhi
Archive footage shows how Mahatma Gandhi led a powerful protest movement that resulted in Indian Independence in 1947. Lord Bhikhu Parekh describes the principles on which the movement was based; non-violent protest (Satyagraha) and resistance through mass civil disobedience. Sachin Nanda regards Gandhi as a role model and, in partnership with some postgraduates, he is exploring how Gandhi's philosophy can be applied to current problems in the Middle East. His contribution draws attention to the lessons that history has to offer modern protestors.
Naked
This segment contains footage of protests carried out by animal rights activists and peace protestors, and a vox pop of views on people's willingness to participate in naked protests. Dr Linda Papadopolous draws attention to the fact that while nudity guarantees media coverage, it can also serve to obscure the protestors' message.
Occupation
This protest method is illustrated by a successful campaign to prevent the closure of Beauty Bank Primary School in Stourbridge. Footage shows parents chained to the school railings. Two parents, Sam Wooldridge and Sharon Perks, explain why they got involved and how they felt about the experience. Dr Linda Papadopolous reflects on what motivates this form of protest and why it often achieves its desired outcomes.
