The Blind Side (2009)
This film will be presented by Dr. Karen Balcanoff. As Dr. Balcanoff explains, "In The Blind Side, the underdog achieved unimaginable success in football. It is a true story of Michael Oher whose mother was a drug addict and his father was murdered. A family takes him in when he is admitted to a private school based on his athletic skills. Critics said The Blind Side was a product of “white guilt,” where white people feel ashamed of themselves over how their ancestors may have mistreated ethnic minorities in the past. There are undertones of racism but it is a feel-good movie."
This film is rated PG-13 for one scene involving brief violence, drug and sexual references
Dr. Balcanoff received her M.B.A from the University of North Florida and D.B.A. from Walden University.
Screening Date and Location
Sunday, October 6, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Campus Library, room L-112
All are welcome to this free event!
Online Resources
The Ballad of Big Mike - New York Times article written by Michael Lewis who went on to write the book, “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game"
Beyond 'The Blind Side,' Michael Oher Rewrites His Own Story
Books at the SJR State Library
Books may be checked out by community patrons as well as SJR State students faculty and staff. If a title is located at another campus, the book may be sent to another campus upon request.
Celebration • Education • Reflection
H.R.1242/Public Law 115-102, the 400 Years of African American History Commission Act, establishes 2019 as a year of "commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Africans in the English colonies, at Point Comfort, Virginia, in 1619." The commemoration is intended “to recognize and highlight the resilience and contributions of African-Americans since 1619; to acknowledge the impact that slavery and laws that enforced racial discrimination had on the United States; and to educate the public about the arrival of Africans in the United States; and the contributions of African-Americans to the United States.” In recognition of this commemoration and with the Act serving as a guide, the SJR State Library has organized a year-long series of events that will provide educational experiences and resources to students and the community that celebrate the history and culture of African Americans.
Site created and maintained by Dr. Christina Will. Pages will be added and maintained throughout 2019.
Maintenance will cease at the end of 2019 but this site will remain accessible.