Netflix is partnering with author and scholar Ibram X. Kendi to produce three new projects based on his books Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America; Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You; and Antiracist Baby. Kendi will executive produce all three projects, Entertainment Weekly reported.
Oscar winner Roger Ross Williams (Music by Prudence; Life, Animated) is directing Stamped from the Beginning, described as "a hybrid documentary/scripted feature." Williams also helms a companion documentary for younger viewers based on Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You. Antiracist Baby will become a series of musical animated vignettes aimed at preschoolers, with Chris Nee, creator of Disney Junior's Doc McStuffins, producing.
"I'm elated these projects landed at Netflix. What a wonderful partner," Kendi said. "I'm elated to work with Roger Ross Williams, Mara Brock Akil, and Chris Nee. They are such ambitious, innovative, and passionate creators who are committed to racial justice. But I'm really elated for the viewers, for the adults and children who will be captivated, informed, and transformed by these projects."
Williams observed: "Dr. Ibram X. Kendi's Stamped from the Beginning and Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You are powerful and essential pieces of literature that clearly outline how deeply rooted racist ideas are in the United States. I hope these films crystallize Dr. Kendi's message that 'the only thing wrong with Black people is that they think something is wrong with Black people' and encourage everyone to fight for a more equitable society. I am thrilled to be partnering with Netflix to bring Dr. Kendi's incredible work and crucial insights to a broader audience."
Nee added: "I feel deeply honored to have a chance to help deepen the impact of Dr. Kendi's work. We are living in tumultuous times and it is incumbent on all of us to use our platforms to make the world a better place."