SMASH!

During the 1990’s, FBI agents and federal prosecutors had wiretapped the visitors badges at Vienna Correctional Center in Illinois where Larry Hoover, the founder of the Gangster Disciples, was incarcerated at. At this visit, Larry Hoover expressed in his own way that there is an urgency for unity all across the U.S.A. This thought and verbal expression became one of the most feared conversations. It was feared by those in authority. It was perceived as a threat due to the fact that our unity would disrupt their agenda and both social and financial gain. This is a man whom has lived the fullness of a life that people glorify; and in their glorification has not reached that stature that he has gotten. Yet he is explaining that there is a need for unity, not violence. There is a need for common ground, not war. This was perceived as a threat. However, it is not a threat to U.S., but to those who hate us. Yet, we have been raised in a culture that hates ourselves, and now we have become the biggest threat to ourselves. Understand what he is saying here. This was 30 years ago. Look at where we are now.

The Incident (1967), directed by Larry Pierce and based on Nicholas E. Baehr's 1963 television play Ride with Terror, follows a cross-section of New Yorkers whose ordinary subway ride is disrupted by two violent young men. Before the passengers' stories converge, the film introduces each character and the social tensions they carry with them.

This exchange between Arnold Robinson (Brock Peters) and Joan Robinson (Ruby Dee) captures a debate unfolding within the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s. Following the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, many viewed those victories as essential first steps, while others questioned whether legal reforms alone could deliver meaningful equality.

Arnold argues that patience has failed and that lasting change requires confrontation. Joan believes progress is real, but insists that change takes time. The film does not resolve their disagreement. It presents two competing responses to injustice during a pivotal moment in American history.

More than half a century later, the argument between Arnold and Joan still feels remarkably current. Perhaps that says as much about the present as it does about the past.