Ep 12. Raising Bertie

In the 12th episode of season 30 of POV, we are taken on a journey to rural North Carolina to explore the lives of three young African American boys – Bud, David, and Junior – as they navigate their way through their adolescent years. The episode, titled "Raising Bertie," follows the trials and tribulations of these boys as they face the challenges of growing up and finding their place in the world.

The three boys live in a community called Bertie County, where poverty and limited opportunities have become a way of life for many of its residents. The film takes us into their lives, homes, and communities as we witness their struggles and successes. We see the boys’ relationships with their mothers, friends, and mentors and how they shape their development.

As we get to know each of the boys, we learn that they have unique personalities and dreams. Bud is an introspective and artistic soul who struggles with academic subjects but excels in poetry. David is outgoing and charismatic but suffers from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Junior is a quiet, but observant young man who has a passion for agriculture and dreams of owning his own farm.

We witness the boys’ resilience as they navigate their way through tough times. As they struggle with personal and academic challenges along the way, they begin to develop a sense of their unique strengths and abilities. We see how they come to terms with their own limitations and learn to see themselves in a new light.

The film also explores the unique challenges that young African American boys face in a community where systemic racism is deeply ingrained. We learn that their experiences are shaped by the expectations of their peers, teachers, and other authority figures in their lives. They try to navigate complex social dynamics and unconscious biases while making choices that will affect their futures.

Throughout the episode, we meet the many individuals who are dedicated to helping Bud, David, and Junior accomplish their goals. We see the ways in which successful planning and community collaboration pay off in their lives. We also witness the devastating effects that poverty and the lack of resources can have on young people.

The themes of Raising Bertie are deeply resonant for audiences of all backgrounds. In the film, we see the intersections of race, class, and gender that shape the lives of young people in rural America. We see how the challenges of adolescence can cause both young people and their families to question whether they are destined for lives defined by limited opportunities.

Overall, Raising Bertie is a heart-warming and inspiring film that offers a window into the lives of young people striving to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. The film is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and community in shaping the lives of young people, even in the most challenging circumstances. It is a powerful portrait of a community struggling to provide opportunities for the next generation, and the young people who fight to create a brighter tomorrow.