The purpose of a society based social contract is to ensure everything is running smoothly. The contract consists of people who must be protected, and the people, or agency (government), that are supposed to be protecting these people. If the contract is being kept by both sides, then society should be a place where everyone is happy. Trevor Noah discusses how the murder of George Floyd goes against this social contract. He mentions how it is most concerning how the ones who took his life are the same people who are supposed to be enforcing the laws and keeping everybody safe. Trevor Noah brings up an interesting question, why aren’t we asking why should people not look Target? If the reason in general is because everyone agrees through this social contract that we won’t, then normally that is acceptable. In times like this where the government is not keeping their side of the contract, why is it still expected of the people to keep theirs? A full citizen in a society is someone who contributes to their society, and keeps their part of the social contract within that society.

The film, “I Am Not Your Negro” was inspired by James Baldwin’s unfinished book, which sought out to expose racism in America. I believe he chose to discuss the lives of Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr, and Medgar Evans because they led the way in the fight for equality and an end to racism, and were murdered because of their efforts. These men knew there was great risk being as outspoken for an end to racism and segregation, and they did not let that fear stop them. They gave their lives in hope that others could enjoy true freedom. Baldwin wanted to acknowledge that.

I felt that the inclusion of video clips from the past really makes you realize what was going on at the time. Instead of relying on stories I have learnt, I am seeing them for myself. The clips really get the point of the film across. One takeaway I from the film that I found to be very interesting was how it was shown that there is an understanding that people make mistakes. The film has many white people apologizing for their actions, as well as Baldwin explaining that he understands people mess up at times. I found that to be very touching because despite Baldwin seeing so much and living through such difficult times for a black man, it’s almost like he says he accepts their apology.