Are you feeling anxious these days? Upset? Discouraged? If so, you should see the film “Hidden Figures.” Here are three good reasons to go–
- It’s a true story about some African-American women hired by NASA as mathematicians in the early 60’s. It’s a fascinating glimpse back in time to see what America looked like then. The men all wore white, short-sleeved shirts with narrow, black ties. People were afraid the Soviet Union would beat us in something called, “the space race.” So, President Kennedy (and others) mobilized the country to work hard on the program—and we succeeded. But the success was based, to a great degree, on the African-American women behind the scenes.
- It’s shocking for those viewers who are too young to have lived through those times. The black females were assigned one bathroom, several blocks from their work area. Separate drinking fountains, coffee pots, and work areas were the standard. So, in a real sense, the women were all hidden figures. Younger viewers who are accustomed to the freedom and privileges many black women have today, will be surprised at how bad things were for these hidden figures—and how far we’ve all come from those days.
- It’s an inspirational film—for everyone. Obviously, the story is about the advancement and success of these black women, but it’s also a good lesson for all of us. Hidden Figures teaches persistence, courage, hard work, and skill, and standing for equal treatment and respect. We hear these words all the time today, but these women really had to live them day to day. Particularly, for the black community, the example of these hidden figures who became heroes as mathematicians and engineers (instead of sports and entertainment figures), gives a wonderful example of other, possibilities in life for all of us to be successful.
Go see “Hidden Figures.” It’ll make you feel good and remind you that in spite of discouraging events in our country now, there are always examples of good people working to help our communities. If you look around your neighborhood today, you’ll see hidden figures doing this right now. Go ahead—take a look!
