PBS is taking the lead on offering viewers an opportunity to learn the true history of HBCUs with a compelling new documentary titled, Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story Of Black Colleges And Universities.

Spearheaded by filmmaker Stanley Nelson, who was the mastermind behind The Black Panthers: Vangaurd of a Revolution documentary that aired on PBS in 2016, Tell Them We Are Rising takes an in depth look at the significant influence HBCUs have had on American culture throughout the course of their 150-year existence. From shining a spotlight on the many HBCU graduates who have gone on to thrive as leaders across all industries, to highlighting the revolutionaries, artists and intellectuals who found a home in an HBCU that fostered their potential like no other, the 90-minute film covers multiple bases.

To enhance to the educational and awareness-related goals of the film, an HBCU Rising website has also been established for the purpose of ensuring that all 105 HBCUs are included in the HBCU Digital Yearbook, according to PBS. The yearbook will reportedly act as an Internet hub that will provide a space for alumni and current students to share their campus. Take a look at the first trailer below.

Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story Of Black Colleges And Universities is scheduled to air as a part of the PBS Independent Lens series on Monday, February 19, 2018.