A Time for Burning facts for kids

A Time for Burning is a powerful American documentary film from 1966. It tells the story of a minister in Omaha, Nebraska, who tries to bring his all-white church together with Black Lutherans in the city. The film shows the challenges and difficulties people faced during the civil rights movement when trying to overcome racial separation. It was directed by William C. Jersey and was even nominated for an Academy Award!

About the Film

The film was made in a style called "cinéma vérité". This means it looks like real life, almost as if you are watching things happen as they did. The movie follows Reverend L. William Youngdahl. He was the minister of Augustana Lutheran Church in Omaha. His goal was to help his white church members connect with Black Lutherans.

A Difficult Conversation

Reverend Youngdahl was the son of a famous judge and former governor, Luther Youngdahl. In the film, he meets with a Black barber named Ernie Chambers. Their talk shows how hard it was to bring people together. Ernie Chambers tells the minister that his idea of Jesus is "contaminated." This meant that the church, despite its teachings, was not truly welcoming to everyone.

Facing Prejudice

The film also shows other ministers discussing the challenges. One minister, Walter E. Rowoldt, shares a difficult conversation. A woman told him she wanted good things for Black people. But she also said she "just can't be in the same room with them." This shows the deep-seated prejudice that existed. Ministers also worried that if Black families moved into white neighborhoods, property values might go down.

The Outcome

Sadly, the efforts to bring the two groups together did not work out. Reverend Youngdahl eventually resigned from his position as minister. The film highlights how difficult it was to change people's minds and overcome racial barriers during that time.

Film's Importance

In 2005, A Time for Burning was chosen for the United States National Film Registry. This is a special honor given by the Library of Congress. It means the film is considered "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." This shows how important the film is for understanding American history.

Ernie Chambers' Legacy

The film's character, Ernie Chambers, went on to do great things. He finished law school and was elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 1970. By 2005, he had become the longest-serving state senator in Nebraska history. He worked for many years to make positive changes in his state.