A Spiritual Moment in Freedom Writers
In one of the most powerful scenes in the film, Erin draws a line in the center of the classroom and divides the students into two groups. She then asks a series of questions, telling the students to step up to the line if their answer is yes.
• Do you own the new Puff Daddy CD?
• Have you seen the movie Boyz in the Hood?
• Do you know anybody who has been in jail?
• Do you know where to get drugs?
• Have you ever been shot at?
• Have you have lost a friend to gang violence?
• Two friends?
• Three friends?
As the students stand on the line, they realize they are standing face-to-face with those of other races, backgrounds, and "tribes." They realize that they share certain common experiences despite their differences.
The Line Game is a powerful way to practice empathy and openness. Download a copy of it here from The Freedom Writers Diary Teacher's Guide by The Freedom Writers Foundation (Broadway Books, February 2007).
