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PARENT'S GUIDE
Summary
According to the Center for Immigration Studies, in the year 2000, estimates were
that one-third of all U.S. citizens were people of color. Today, one-third of the
children in public schools are from what have traditionally been called "minority"
groups. Today's changing demographics are compelling. However, the United States
has always been challenged to find effective ways for its diverse population to
live and work well together. One of the greatest obstacles to accomplishing this
goal is prejudice. Prejudice refers to attitudes or opinions about a person or
group of people simply because the person belongs to a specific religion, race,
nationality or other group. The events of September 11 have led to increased
prejudice and discrimination against Muslim Americans and Arab Americans.
However, incidents of prejudice and discrimination towards many diverse
minorities occur in our schools and communities every day.
The WB's 7th Heaven presents a timely episode about the effects of
prejudice and intolerance. In Suspicion, airing Monday, January 21 at
8pm/ET, Ruthie (Mackenzie Rosman) steps in to protect her Muslim friend Yasmine
(guest star Ashley Solomon) from bullies who have been terrorizing her because of
her ethnic and religious background. Eric (Stephen Collins), Annie (Catherine
Hicks) and the other kids all work together to defend Yasmine and her family,
and, in the process, discover the sad truth that many people in their community
share the same fears.
To help parents and educators use Suspicion as a springboard to discuss
prejudice and discrimination in light of September 11, as well as in a broader
context, The WB is providing the following support materials, including
backgrounders, suggestions for questions and activities, and resources for further
research and investigation.
7th Heaven is a contemporary family drama about a minister and his wife sharing love,
laughter and life with their seven children. The Camdens are a surprisingly functional family,
enjoying close relationships despite their occasional differences and the usual problems that
every family faces. Parents Eric and Annie are always ready to face any challenge that
comes their way on the roller coaster ride known as "parenting," while the teens on 7th Heaven
help illustrate the many complex issues of growing up in the world today. Past episodes have tackled
issues ranging from dating crises to teen suicide, sibling rivalry to gang violence.
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