'Fresh Prince' Actress Brings Stories of African-American Achievement to Children

Karen Parsons, known for her role in 'The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,' transitioned to storytelling to highlight African American heroes through her company, Sweet BlackBerry. She shares the inspiring story of Henry Box Brown, who mailed himself to freedom, and discusses the importance of telling such stories to empower children. Parsons also highlights the achievements of Bessie Coleman, the first black female aviator. Her transition from acting to nonprofit work was facilitated by industry connections, which she leveraged to promote these stories.

What inspired Karen Parsons to start Sweet BlackBerry?

• Her acting career

• A documentary she watched

• A story her mother told her

• A book she read

Why does Karen Parsons believe it's important for children to learn about African American heroes?

• To prepare them for future careers

• To entertain them

• To empower them and change perceptions of race

• To improve their academic performance

Who was Bessie Coleman?

• A famous actress

• A civil rights leader

• An inventor

• The first black female aviator

How did Karen Parsons use her acting connections in her nonprofit work?

• By asking them to donate money

• By casting them in her films

• By collaborating with them on projects

• By inviting them to events

Who did Karen Parsons collaborate with for the story of Henry Box Brown?

• Will Smith

• Morgan Freeman

• Alfrey Woodard

• Oprah Winfrey