Episode Two Activities
With the help of recording artist and producer Mike Brown, Dr. Byron Young explores the power of music, in particular hip-hop, to help deal with stress.
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Activity One: Let’s Talk about Systemic Oppression
Refer to the video at 0:52–1:20. This part of the video sets the stage for understanding the concept of critical thinking. The video goes on to describe systemic oppression and gives examples of disparities that result, including the increased likelihood of Black and brown folks to be incarcerated compared to their white counterparts.
Think and write reflections on the questions below, and then discuss with your group (if available). If you are reviewing this content solo, consider discussing these questions with peers or leaders next time you have the chance.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ideas you find yourself thinking critically about?
- What are some forms of systemic oppression that directly affect you, and people you care about?
- Think critically, write about and discuss some of the reasons you think Black and brown people are more likely to be incarcerated than white people in America?
Want to learn more? Check out:
- Watch “What Is Critical Thinking?”
- Watch this video about “How the School to Prison Pipeline Functions”
Activity Two: Let’s Talk about Stereotypes
Refer to the video from 3:38–4:27. Here the video defines stereotypes and discusses the power of stereotypes.
Think and write reflections on the questions below, and then discuss with your group (if available). If you are reviewing this content solo, consider discussing these questions with peers or leaders next time you have the chance.
Reflection Questions
- Name some stereotypes that you have heard about different groups?
- How does believing stereotypes cause harm?
- Name some stereotypes that have affected you directly and how did you work to overcome them?
Want to learn more? Check out:
Activity Three: Let’s Talk about the Power of Music and Writing in Dealing with Stress
Refer to 6:04–8:16 in the video. Here the hosts speak about the power of using music and writing to deal with emotions.
Refer to 8:17–9:49 in the video and use the music in the video or any beat of your choice to write a song or poem (at least 16 bars or lines) about ways you deal with stress.
Think and write reflections on the questions below, and then discuss with your group (if available). If you are reviewing this content solo, consider discussing these questions with peers or leaders next time you have the chance.
Reflection Questions
- What are your favorite types of music to listen to when it comes to dealing with stress?
- What is it about that music that helps you in stressful times?
- Describe the feeling of writing a song or poem about dealing with stress?