‘Black and Jewish America’ presents ‘Strange Fruit’

Tuesday, February 10 at 8 p.m.

Explore how Black and Jewish communities collaborated in music, film and fighting fascism from the 1920s to 1950s, navigating divides while shaping culture and confronting injustice.

“Black and Jewish America: An Interwoven History” is a four-part docuseries that explores the complex relationship between Black Americans and Jewish Americans, forged in shared struggle, tested by division and representing a uniquely American experience.

Black and Jewish Americans began on fundamentally different footing, but by the early 20th century, they were drawn together by entrenched racism and rising anti-semitism.

These shared experiences led to productive civic partnerships and sparked creative bonds that led to collaborations in music and film that would profoundly shape American pop culture.

Now, Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. speaks with dozens of scholars, activists, religious leaders and writers about the kinship between the two groups, defined by powerful moments of solidarity and division.

“Black and Jewish America: An Interwoven History” is free to stream weekly in the PBS app for 30 days after broadcast, then available for streaming with Arizona PBS Passport.

Celebrate Black History Month with programming that recognizes cultural contributions as well as victories and sacrifices. Explore remarkable stories of African Americans across generations, both nationwide and within our community, in featured documentaries, music specials, local interviews and resources for families and educators.