On the Shoulders of Giants

On the Shoulders of Giants is a documentary created by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar that revisits the Harlem Renaissance Big Five, focusing on the Harlem Rens as pioneering Black American athletes. The film's purpose is to revive this largely unknown chapter of sports history and to present Black heroes for modern audiences to admire.

In 1939, professional basketball was segregated in the United States; Black teams could compete but were barred from championships or league membership. The film explains the structural barriers that prevented the Harlem Rens from contending for the national title despite their skill.

The Harlem Renaissance Big Five, known as the Harlem Rens, emerged as the era's premier Black team. They competed against white teams and proved themselves as among the best in the country, setting the stage for a championship run.

The Rens yearned for a chance at a national championship, despite exclusion from certain leagues. The film documents their drive to prove themselves on the nation's biggest stages.

The Rens defeated every rival, including the top white teams, to claim the national title and be recognized as world champions. Their triumph challenged the era's racial barriers and inspired future generations.

The film emphasizes that the Rens evolved into role models for Black America during that era. Their success provided a source of pride amid discrimination and economic hardship.

The film argues that the Rens' story has remained relatively unknown to broader audiences. By presenting their legacy, it aims to widen the canon of American sports heroes and Harlem Renaissance figures.

To accompany the film, the Skyhook Foundation developed a high school–level educational program. The program uses the film to teach about the Harlem Renaissance and its impact across sports, music, literature, and history.

The study guide for the educational program is endorsed by the National Council for the Social Studies. This endorsement helps distribute the materials to social studies teachers nationwide.

UCLA supported distribution of the study guide and educational materials. This partnership helps ensure broad access to teachers and students across the country.

The film was released nationwide through Video on Demand on major cable systems in February 2011. This release marked the film's broad public debut and reach beyond traditional theatrical venues.

During Black History Month, the film is shown in high schools across the country. Educators use the accompanying study guide to contextualize the Harlem Rens within the broader history of the Harlem Renaissance.

The overall goal is to educate students about the Harlem Renaissance's impact on sports, music, literature and history. The project seeks to broaden knowledge and awareness of African American heroes for generations to come.