Carole Boston Weatherford: Using Black Music & Children's Literature To Teach Social Justice

• Enslavement in the United States: Understanding the institution of slavery in the United States is crucial to understanding the historical context of the book. Research the origins of slavery, the Atlantic slave trade, and the experiences of enslaved people in America.

• Congo Square: Congo Square was a gathering place for enslaved Africans and African Americans in New Orleans during the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn about its significance as a site of cultural expression and community during a time of oppression.

• African Cultural Heritage: Explore the diverse cultural heritage of Africa and the traditions that were brought to the United States by enslaved Africans. Research African music, dance, storytelling, and other art forms that influenced the development of African American culture.

• Creole Culture in New Orleans: New Orleans has a unique cultural heritage influenced by the mix of African, European, and Native American traditions. Learn about the development of Creole culture, including music (such as jazz), cuisine, and language, and how it intersected with the experiences of enslaved people.

• Rhythms and Music: The book emphasizes the importance of rhythm and music in the lives of enslaved people. Explore different musical forms and instruments, such as drums and handclapping, that were used to create a sense of community and preserve cultural traditions.

• Enslaved Life and Resistance: Gain an understanding of the daily life of enslaved people, including the hardships they faced and the ways they resisted and asserted their humanity. Learn about forms of resistance, such as spirituals, storytelling, and secret gatherings.

Primary Questions:

• What is the main message or theme of the book?
• Why do you think the book is called "Freedom in Congo Square"?
• What is Congo Square, and why was it important to the people in the story?
• How did the enslaved people in the story find moments of freedom and joy?
• What are some of the ways the enslaved people expressed their culture and traditions?
• How did music and rhythm play a role in the lives of the people in the story?
• Why do you think it was important for the people to gather in Congo Square on Sundays?
• How did the people in the story show resilience and strength despite their difficult circumstances?
• How does the book make you feel? Why?

Secondary Questions:

• Discuss the significance of Congo Square in the context of American history. How did this gathering place provide a sense of community and cultural expression for enslaved Africans and African Americans?

• Explore the themes of resilience and resistance in the book. How did the enslaved people in the story maintain their sense of identity and dignity despite their oppressive circumstances?

• Discuss the role of music and rhythm in the lives of the characters. How did music serve as a form of communication, cultural preservation, and expression of emotions? Can you think of other historical instances where music played a similar role?

• Analyze the illustrations in the book. How do the illustrations contribute to the overall storytelling and portrayal of the characters' experiences? How does the use of color and movement enhance the narrative?

• Reflect on the meaning of freedom as depicted in the book. How did the characters find moments of freedom within the confines of slavery? Discuss the significance of Emancipation Day and its representation in the story.

• Explore the historical context of slavery in the United States. How does the book depict the realities of slavery? How do the experiences of the characters in the story align with historical accounts of slavery?

• Discuss the impact of cultural heritage and traditions on the characters' lives. How did African cultural practices and traditions influence their sense of identity and community? How did they hold onto their cultural heritage in the face of oppression?

• Analyze the author's choice of language and poetic style. How does the writing style contribute to the emotional impact of the story? Discuss specific passages or phrases that stood out to you and explain their significance.

• Consider the themes of hope and resilience in the book. How did the characters maintain hope and find strength during challenging times? Can you draw parallels between their experiences and the experiences of marginalized groups in contemporary society?

• Reflect on the book's relevance to today's world. How does the story of "Freedom in Congo Square" connect to ongoing conversations about social justice, cultural preservation, and the importance of community? What lessons can be learned from the characters' experiences?

Extension questions to ask students about the history of Congo Square intersecting with Jazz in New Orleans:
These questions can serve as starting points for class discussions, research projects, or written reflections, allowing students to explore the intersections between the history of Congo Square and the development of jazz music in New Orleans.

• What was the historical significance of Congo Square in New Orleans?
• Have you discovered Congo Square today? Research its current existence and surrounding environment.
• How did the gatherings and cultural practices in Congo Square contribute to the development of jazz music in New Orleans?
• What were some of the musical and cultural influences present in Congo Square that shaped the early development of jazz?
• How did the experiences and traditions of enslaved African Americans in Congo Square impact the evolution of jazz as a genre?
• In what ways did the rhythms, instruments, and improvisation techniques used in Congo Square contribute to the distinctive characteristics of jazz music?
• How did jazz musicians draw inspiration from the spirit of freedom and collective expression associated with Congo Square?
• Can you identify any specific jazz musicians or bands that were influenced by the history and cultural practices of Congo Square? Explain their connections.
• How did the legacy of Congo Square continue to influence jazz and the broader cultural landscape of New Orleans over time?
• In what ways did the experiences and contributions of African American musicians in New Orleans shape the development and popularity of jazz music in the United States and beyond?
• How does the history of Congo Square and its connection to jazz contribute to our understanding of the cultural, social, and historical significance of music in shaping communities and fostering resilience?
• In what ways can the word "gumbo" be compared to the historical significance of Congo Square in New Orleans?

1. How do you think the people in the book felt during their gatherings in Congo Square? Why do you think the freedom to gather and express themselves was so important to them?

2. How does the book make you feel about the concept of freedom after learning about the experience of the enslaved people in "Freedom in Congo Square"? What emotions does it evoke and why?

3. Reflecting on the lives of enslaved people in the story, what emotions arise when considering their resilience and perseverance? 

4. How can we honor and preserve cultural traditions and practices that promote freedom and self-expression, as shown in the book?

5. Reflect on the power of music and the arts as forms of expression and healing. How do these forms of creativity impact your own emotions and well-being?

6. How can we use the lessons from "Freedom in Congo Square" to promote empathy, equality, and freedom in our own communities and society at large?

7. Have you ever experienced a moment of joy or celebration that made you feel free? How did it affect your emotions and well-being?

8. How can you to create a sense of belonging and freedom for everyone?

Here are some K-12 classroom activities that students can do for the book "Freedom in Congo Square" by Carole Boston Weatherford:

English & Language Arts

1. Historical Fiction Writing: Discuss the concept of historical fiction with students and explain that "Freedom in Congo Square" is a blend of history and storytelling. Ask students to write their own historical fiction pieces set during the time of slavery, imagining a character's experience at Congo Square. They can explore themes of freedom, community, or resilience in their narratives.

Social Studies

1. Historical Research: Have students conduct research on the history of Congo Square in New Orleans during the time of slavery. Ask them to gather information about the significance of this location as a gathering place for enslaved African Americans, and the cultural practices and traditions that took place there. Students can create presentations, posters, or digital exhibits to share their findings with the class.

2. Mapping Congo Square: Provide students with a map of New Orleans and ask them to mark the location of Congo Square. Encourage them to explore the surrounding area and identify other historical sites or landmarks related to African American history. Students can discuss the significance of these locations and their impact on the community.

3. Mapping Natural Resources: Explore the geographical context of Congo Square and the availability of natural resources in the region. Have students research the natural resources found in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. They can create maps indicating the locations of important resources such as water bodies, forests, or agricultural land. Discuss the significance of these resources in the historical and cultural context of the book.

4. Cultural Comparisons: Engage students in a discussion about cultural traditions and celebrations depicted in the book. Have them research and compare similar cultural celebrations from different countries around the world. Students can create presentations or posters highlighting the similarities and differences between these celebrations and those portrayed in the book.

5. Community Reflection: Engage students in a discussion about the importance of community gathering places. Encourage them to reflect on the role of community spaces in their own lives and how these spaces foster connections and a sense of belonging. Students can share personal stories or create a class mural or collage that represents the community spaces that hold significance for them.

6. Enslaved African Life Experiences: Students can research and present on the history of American enslavement, resistance, and abolition movements in the United States and countries beyond the United States. Discuss and compare the impact of these historical events on the broader struggle for freedom and human rights.

7. Mapping the Diaspora: Investigate the African diaspora by mapping the movement of people from enslaved Africans to different parts of the world. Students can identify and mark the countries or regions where enslaved Africans were prevalent. What was the cultural and social impact in identified countries?

8. Global Freedom Fighters: Research notable individuals from various countries, contrasting them with the United States who have fought for freedom, justice, and human rights. Students can create biographical profiles or posters highlighting the contributions and struggles of these individuals. Discuss the interconnectedness of global movements for freedom and how their efforts resonate with the themes in "Freedom in Congo Square."

Science

1. Sound Waves: Provide musical instruments, or create homemade musical instruments using everyday objects and explore how different materials and designs affect the sound produced.
    
2. Weather Patterns and Seasons: Discuss the importance of weather and seasons in the lives of the characters in "Freedom in Congo Square." Explore the connection between weather patterns, seasons, and enslaved African agricultural practices. Engage students in a discussion about how climate and weather affect enslaved African's ability to gather and celebrate, as well as the influence of weather on the growth of crops and availability of resources.

Math

1. Data Analysis: Use the book as an extension for data collection and analysis. Ask students to gather information about historical events, cultural practices, or geographical aspects from background knowledge mentioned in the book. They can create charts, graphs, or diagrams to represent the data they collect visually. Engage students in discussions about the patterns, trends, and relationships they observe in the data.

The Arts

1. Artistic Expression: Congo Square was known for its vibrant music, dance, and cultural expressions. Encourage students to engage in artistic activities inspired by the book. They can create their own artwork, such as paintings, drawings, or collages, that represent the energy and spirit of Congo Square. Alternatively, students can compose music or write poems that capture the essence of the events described in the book.

2. Rhythmic Clapping and Singing: In the book, the rhythmic clapping and singing of the enslaved individuals. Teach students clapping rhythms and lead them in singing songs that reflect the spirit of resilience and community depicted in the story. Encourage students to create their own rhythmic patterns and lyrics inspired by the book and perform them as a group.

3. Dance and Movement: Explore the connection between dance and freedom by teaching students traditional African dance steps or movements inspired by the book. Guide them in creating a dance routine that reflects the emotions and themes portrayed in "Freedom in Congo Square." Students can perform their routines individually or in groups.

4. Music and Dance from Around the World: Explore the diverse musical traditions and dance forms from different cultures around the world. Have students research and present on various musical genres and dance styles that resonate with the themes of freedom and resilience depicted in the book. They can learn and perform traditional songs or dances from different countries, showcasing the power of cultural expressions.

5. International Artistic Expressions: Explore different art forms and artistic expressions from around the world that convey messages of freedom and cultural identity. Students can analyze art pieces, such as paintings, sculptures, or textiles, from various cultures. Encourage them to create their own artwork inspired by the themes and artistic traditions they explore.

These activities encourage students to explore history, culture, and themes of resilience and community depicted in "Freedom in Congo Square." They provide opportunities for creativity, critical thinking, and personal reflection. Adapt the activities to suit the grade level and interests of your students.

Visual Literacy

• How does R. Gregory Christie depict the people of Congo Square in his illustrations? What details does he include to celebrate their strength, resilience, and sense of community?
• Describe the style of R. Gregory Christie's illustrations in "Freedom in Congo Square." What artistic techniques does he use to capture the spirit and energy of the story?
• How do the illustrations contribute to the overall mood and atmosphere of the book? Are there specific scenes or moments where the illustrations particularly enhance the storytelling?
• How does R. Gregory Christie depict the people of Congo Square in his illustrations? What details does he include to celebrate their strength, resilience, and sense of community?