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May
13
Rue Case-Nègre: Appropriate Film for French Class?
May 13, 2008 | Tagged film, flteach | Leave a Comment
There is an interesting discussion on FLTEACH regarding the film Rue
Case-Nègre and the use of the “n” word. The issue at hand is whether or not this film is appropriate for the high school classroom. There are some very thoughtful posts surrounding the issues of culture, sensitivity, and situating the film within its historical and cultural frame while deciding if it is appropriate for your school and your students. Here are some of my favorite responses:
From Kareen Obydol-Alexandre:
I am black French (from Guadeloupe) and I have shown Rue Case-Nègre. I have students of diverse racial backgrounds. What I do though, before the movie,I mention that the “n” word appears a lot but it does not have the connotation they expect. I also explain that the word nègre is used in
France to talk about a ghost writer (I think that’s the English term). I am
not saying it is right, but it is part of the culture. My culture. (5/9/08)
Crystal Cannon replied:
I think that would be a great loss to your students, both black and white. As a black person, and a French teacher, I don’t equivalate the word French word nègre to the American n-word. In my mind, they are two different words. One means Negro or black, not pejorative, the other very pejorative. I show this movie to my students the minute we begin talking about Martinique, but also I want them to know some history and this film is one of the few that shows it. What a loss if my students couldn’t see this movie. I’ve even heard some French teachers say they don’t show it because it’s in Creole, which is not true. This movie is a treasure and should not be passed over for any reason!!! If your students have questions about the language, explain it to them, but please, don’t stop showing this film and telling this story, I beg you. (5/12/08)
Additional discussion revolves around the comfort of the teacher situating the film for the students; discussion that if shown, would the film or teacher be considered racist; discussion on the comfort of the teacher in showing the film. Some discomfort noted lies in the teacher having the deep understanding to be able to confidently situate the film culturally and historically:
I think the kids still handle it as such, though — as a portrayal of a situation that contributes to the plot and understanding the characters. It gives the opportunity to talk about attitudes then – and now, if you’re up to it. (Mary Young, 5/08)
And, of course, everyone must evaluate what will be acceptable in your school, by your students, parents and administration, and as a teacher, your willingness to enter in to culturally sensitive discussions.
We must continue to prepare teachers and provide opportunities for practicing teachers to gain greater understandings of historical and contemporary culture in order for them to be able to bring these perspectives in to the classroom.
