It will inspire thought, discussion, and analysis in a wide variety of courses in American history and studies, African American studies, sociology, psychology, criminology, and multiculturalism. The burning of churches, temples, and synagogues is an attempt to destroy communities of believers by reducing their spiritual homes to ashes. The arsonists deny the people they hate an opportunity to gather in worship. Forgotten Fires is a useful tool to examine how hate crimes get acted out, and to develop strategies for resisting them. The connections are obvious for those who work with youth and in rural areas, but the issues raised are also pertinent in cities and among both socially-conscious and complacent adults.
Forgotten Fires helps teachers recognize ways that society teaches children to hate.
The film presents a major social problem in a form that junior and senior high school students can grasp, opening discussion about racism and hate crimes. Forgotten Fires mirrors American society as a whole, but it offers a particular opportunity for juvenile offenders to identify with Tim Welch, both in his crime and in his effort to take responsibility and to repent. Corrections officers have responded enthusiastically to early screenings of this film. Read and discuss the National Church Arson Task Force Report. It is important that community leaders publicly oppose hate crimes.