I Am a Man--We Are Human
Questions to consider:
-How is the phrase (and/or design of the original poster) used? How do the changes and adaptations it has undergone reflect different time periods and issues in United States history?
-Why has the phrase "I am a Man" had such staying power? Alternately, why has "We Are Human" been adopted?
-How do the above phrases reflect or reject concepts like "separateness," "personal identity," or "inclusion"?
-Why do you think many artists are drawn to the phrase and design? Do you think the artists expect viewers to recognize the influence of the original work? Why or why not?
-Why is the verb underlined? How would it change if another word were emphasized?
-What other examples could be included in this collection? This collection focuses primarily on visual interpretations of the phrase. Can you think of literary or pop culture examples?
Tags: Ernest Withers, Dread Scott, Ferguson, Abolition, Sojourner Truth, Memphis, sanitation workers, immigration reform, refugee crisis, Hank Willis Thomas, protest, sign, placard, broadside, civil rights