Maya Angelou's "Hey Black Child," recited by 3-yr old Pe’Tehn Raighn Kem

Summary

This video script features a powerful performance of the poem 'Hey Black Child' by Countee Cullen, where a child delivers an inspiring message about self-worth, potential, and the strength to achieve one's dreams. The child’s confident recital is paired with uplifting encouragement from an adult, who highlights the child's intelligence and beauty, reinforcing that they are capable of great things. The interaction emphasizes empowerment, support, and the importance of believing in oneself, creating an uplifting and motivational atmosphere.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-discovery, particularly for Black children, encouraging them to recognize their worth and potential.
• 😀 A recurring message is that Black children can achieve anything they set their minds to, provided they try and put in the effort.
• 😀 The script uses affirmations like 'You are strong,' 'You are smart,' and 'You can be what you want to be' to boost self-confidence and motivation.
• 😀 The idea that education and learning are keys to empowerment is presented, suggesting that children can learn whatever they desire if they try hard enough.
• 😀 The importance of knowing where you are going and understanding your goals is highlighted, inspiring the children to have a clear vision for their future.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the strength and resilience of Black children, framing them as capable of achieving greatness if they believe in themselves.
• 😀 The script repeatedly asks questions to provoke self-reflection in children, such as 'Do you know who you are?' and 'Do you know where you're going?'
• 😀 There is an emphasis on collective empowerment, with the speaker suggesting that the success of individuals can contribute to the transformation of the nation.
• 😀 The positive reinforcement throughout the script serves to uplift the child's sense of self-worth, stressing intelligence and beauty alongside strength.
• 😀 The speaker provides reassurance to the child that fear of forgetting words or failing is unnecessary, encouraging confidence and a mindset focused on perseverance.

Q & A

What is the main message of the script?

The main message of the script is empowerment and encouragement, specifically directed towards the Black child, emphasizing their strength, potential, and ability to achieve anything they set their mind to.

How does the script address the Black child?

The script directly addresses the Black child by repeatedly asking empowering questions, such as 'Do you know who you are?' and 'Do you know what you can achieve?' It encourages them to believe in their strength, intelligence, and potential.

What does the script suggest about learning and growth?

The script encourages the Black child to pursue knowledge and growth by stating that they can learn anything they want to learn if they try. It stresses the importance of effort and persistence in personal development.

How does the speaker encourage self-belief in the child?

The speaker fosters self-belief by affirming the child's strength and intelligence, telling them that they are not only beautiful but also smart. The speaker reassures the child that they are capable of achieving their goals if they try.

Why is the phrase 'hey black child' repeated throughout the script?

The repetition of 'hey black child' serves to reinforce the personal connection and focus on the child being addressed. It emphasizes that the message is specifically tailored for them, calling them to recognize their worth and potential.

What does the line 'tomorrow your nation will be what you want it to be' mean?

This line suggests that the future is in the hands of the Black child. If they strive to be what they are capable of, their efforts will contribute to shaping the future of their nation in a way that aligns with their aspirations.

What is the significance of the conversation about forgetting the words?

The conversation about forgetting the words reflects a moment of reassurance and support. The speaker reassures the child that they are smart and prepared, offering encouragement to calm any nervousness or self-doubt.

What role does confidence play in the script?

Confidence plays a crucial role in the script, as the speaker emphasizes that the child is capable of doing anything they set their mind to, reinforcing the importance of believing in oneself and one's abilities.

How does the speaker build the child's confidence during the script?

The speaker builds the child's confidence by complimenting their intelligence and strength, reassuring them that they are not only beautiful but also smart. This encourages the child to trust in their abilities and not be afraid to pursue their dreams.

What does the speaker mean when they say 'learn what you must learn'?

The phrase 'learn what you must learn' suggests that there are essential lessons and knowledge that the child needs to acquire in order to succeed and contribute to their future. It emphasizes the importance of education and personal growth.