Nicki Minaj: Not Trump’s Uncle Tom

This episode explores Black freedom of speech through systems of empowerment and intergenerational resilience.

Lesson Plan Title: Nicki Minaj — No Uncle Tom for Trump

Audience: Common sense participants—community members, church leaders, legal aid volunteers, and restoration-minded citizens Duration: 45–60 minutes Theme: Using public messaging to restore legacy, confront injustice, and inspire action

Learning Objective

Objective: Participants will be able to craft a short, persuasive public message that integrates historical truth, moral conviction, and a call to action.

Example: By the end of the session, each participant will write a 3–5 sentence public statement addressing a current issue (e.g., religious violence, political hypocrisy, cultural erasure) using restorationist language and a clear moral stance.

Learning Outcomes

1. Outcome 1: Identify Restorationist Messaging Techniques
   • Participants will analyze examples of public statements (e.g., Nicki Minaj’s UN speech, Trump-aligned rapper commentary) to identify techniques such as legacy invocation, moral clarity, and refusal of victimhood.
   • Example: Highlight phrases like “faith is under attack” or “Trump will do what he says” and explain how they signal conviction and agency.
2. Outcome 2: Distinguish Between Symbolism and Substance
   • Participants will critique symbolic gestures (e.g., performative allyship) versus substantive action (e.g., policy, partnership, or public risk-taking).
   • Example: Compare a celebrity tweet with Nicki Minaj’s UN appearance and discuss which one models real leadership.
3. Outcome 3: Compose a Restorationist Statement
   • Participants will write a short public message that includes a historical reference, a moral claim, and a call to action.
   • Example: “Our ancestors didn’t survive slavery for us to stay silent while churches burn. We rise with truth, not trends. Protect faith. Defend legacy.”

Assessment Methods

• Formative Assessment:
  • Quick-write reflection: “What makes a message powerful?”
  • Exit ticket: One sentence using restorationist framing on a current issue.
• Summative Assessment:
  • Final product: A 3–5 sentence public statement graded on:
    • Clarity of message
    • Use of historical or moral framing
    • Strength of call to action

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