Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends Season 2 Episode 3 Black Nationalism

Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends season 2 episode 3 titled "Black Nationalism" explores the provocative world of black nationalism through the perspective of a number of different groups and individuals. Throughout the episode, Louis takes viewers on a journey across the United States to meet people who are trying to establish a fully independent black state or who are simply passionate about black pride and identity.

Throughout the episode, Theroux meets with members of the New Black Panthers Party, a black nationalist group that believes in arming themselves in preparation for an inevitable war against whites. He also visits with Yahweh Ben Yahweh, the leader of the Nation of Yahweh, who has been accused of murder and is currently on trial. Yahweh Ben Yahweh teaches that black people are the true Israelites and that whites are evil, and his followers believe he is a prophetic leader.

In addition to these extremist groups, Louis also spends time with more moderate black nationalists who are fighting for equality in more peaceful ways. He meets with professor Maulana Karenga, creator of the African American holiday Kwanzaa, and listens as he explains his belief in black unity and empowerment. He also spends time with Ras Baraka, a former black nationalist who has since become the mayor of Newark, New Jersey. Baraka speaks to Louis about his own experiences with black nationalism and what motivated him to become involved in politics.

Throughout the episode, Louis tries to understand what motivates these various groups and individuals to embrace black nationalism. He asks probing questions about their beliefs and their goals, and listens as they describe their experiences with racism and discrimination. He also explores the tensions between these groups and other communities, including Jews and white people.

Ultimately, "Black Nationalism" offers a nuanced and thought-provoking look at a complex and often controversial ideology. Louis Theroux's embodiment of openness and curiosity towards those very different from one another instigates his ability to provide an engrossing look at not only the beliefs of black nationalists, but also the reasons behind these beliefs and the implications these beliefs hold for the world. This episode illuminates how important it is for a society to listen to and address the concerns of those who feel excluded or discriminated against, while acknowledging the need to hold people accountable for their actions.