Extra Credit - American Violet

Watch American Violet (2008), and write a one to two page reflection paper analyzing the interlocking systems of oppression at work in Dee’s life that contribute to additional stress in caring for her family. How does living in low-income housing subsidized by the government, patrolled and raided by local authorities affect the lives of Dee and her children? How does poverty, low wage jobs, limited educational preparation, de facto segregation, and a drug trade impact day-to-day living as well as the future for Dee and her children?

What power and influence does the local DA wield in the community to effect employment, jeopardize the safety and security of families, curtail the ability of citizens to receive government welfare assistance and subsidies and threaten individuals into silence and submission? What institutions does the DA oversee and control that has a negative impact on Dee’s life?

How does the black church serve as a refuge for Dee and her family? Compare Dee’s circumstances and opportunities in Melody, Texas in the 21st century to the lives of African Americans at the beginning of the 20th century. How does the family and the black church act in similar ways within each of these eras to assist Dee with confronting the racism she faces?

How is Dee ultimately successful in proving racist intent and in dismantling some of the laws that support a racist power structure? Why is it significant that Dee remain in her community and that white members of the community assist her in her efforts to change an unjust system and accepted social practices? How does America’s prisons and criminal justice system continue to oppress people of color 150 years after slavery has ended?