Yesterday while watching CNN during a Mets/ Phillies rain delay I learned about a new documentary series called “CNN Presents: Black in America.“  The docu-series actually kicked off a while ago with its first first installment called “Eyewitness to Murder: The King Assasination.“  I missed that but I believe its avaliable on line and will check it out.

In the two latest installments called “The Black Woman and Family” and the “Black Man” are set to premier on July 23rd.  Host Soledad O’Brien explores the varied experiences of black women and families and investigates the reasons behind the disturbing statistics on single parenthood, disparities between black and white students in the classroom and the devastating toll of the HIV/AIDS. O’Brien reports on the progress of black women in the workplace, in universities and the status of the black middle class.

In the “The Black Man,” which will premier on July 24th, O’Brien evaluates the state of black men in America and explores the controversial topics of black men and fatherhood; disparities between blacks and whites in educational, career and financial achievement; and factors leading to the dramatic rates of black male incarceration. The documentary also examines the achievements of black men and the importance of the positive influences of black fathers.

Although I’m not in love with the title “BLACK IN AMERICA,” (seems real trivial,) I think I will watch it to see what those they have interviewed had to say on these very important topics to the Nation.  Here are two such interviews from Spike Lee and Russell Simmons.