POV Season 25 Episode 8 Short Cuts - The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement

In "Short Cuts - The Barber of Birmingham: Foot Soldier of the Civil Rights Movement," POV follows the life story of James Armstrong, a 90-year-old barber in Birmingham, Alabama. As a young man, Armstrong played a vital role in the civil rights movement and worked alongside the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Fred Shuttlesworth to promote racial equality in America.

The documentary takes us on a journey through Armstrong's life, starting with his background growing up in the segregated South. Despite the challenges of living in a society that actively discriminated against black Americans, Armstrong was determined to change things for the better. He became involved in the civil rights movement at a young age, participating in marches, sit-ins, and boycotts to fight for equal rights.

Throughout the course of the film, Armstrong shares his experiences of being arrested and jailed while protesting, and how he stuck to his principles even in the face of adversity. As he recounts his stories, we see archive footage of the civil rights movement, giving us a better understanding of the struggles that Armstrong and other activists faced at the time.

As well as highlighting Armstrong's involvement in the civil rights movement, the documentary also explores his life as a barber. Armstrong is shown cutting hair in his barbershop and talking to customers, giving us a glimpse into his daily routine. We also meet some of Armstrong's family members and friends, who share their perspectives on his life and legacy.

Overall, the "Short Cuts" episode of POV provides an inspiring and informative look at the life of James Armstrong. Through his story, we see the power of individuals to effect change and stand up for what is right. This is an episode that is sure to leave viewers feeling uplifted and motivated to make a difference in their own lives.