The Artist as Dissident — “Ai WeiWei: Never Sorry”
Ai Weiwei learned early on about politics and art through the experience of his father Ai Qing, a renowned poet who was imprisoned by Chiang Kai-shek.
“The Invisible War” — Documentary Spotlighting Rape in the Military Aims to Create National Awareness
Would anybody enlist if they knew a court ruling had put forth, “Rape is an occupational hazard of military service.”
“The Koch Brothers Exposed” – A Conversation with Robert Greenwald
In his new film, “The Koch Brothers Exposed,” director Robert Greenwald examines the pervasive influence of David and Charles Koch on the American fabric of life.
Harry Belafonte: Artist and Activist Still on the March
Belafonte said, “Artists have power, the largest power in the universe. The artist is a supreme being, and art is to define our humanity, to encourage.”
“The Dancing Boys Of Afghanistan” — Examining Sexual Abuse
I believe that the central issue is one of power. These men who abuse little boys clearly enjoy the feeling of absolute power they have over them.
“Girls Likes Us” — Rachel Lloyd’s Memoir Illuminates the Sexual Exploitation of Children
Girls Like Us presents a dual story thread. One is Lloyd’s personal narrative; the other is a primer on what trafficked American girls are up against.
“Chimes of Freedom” Celebrates the Power of Music and Activism
When oppressive regimes clamp down on their citizens, freedom of expression—free speech—is always the first thing to go. Dictators have a lot to fear from individuals speaking up—through their writings, through art and film and music.
“Blood and Gifts” – A Conversation with Playwright J.T. Rogers
“Blood and Gifts,” a play by J.T. Rogers, creates a full overview of the issues and choices that were the precursors to our current situation in Afghanistan.
“Becoming Ginger Rogers” – How Patrice Tanaka Found Her Joy
Tanaka told me that she had written the book to help others and to communicate the key message, “Pursue your joy with a sense of urgency. Live out full and fiercely today with no regrets.”
Ordinary Citizens Fight Big Coal In “The Last Mountain”
The documentary makes it clear that the people pushing back are up against very heavy hitters. This includes representatives from both political parties, lobbyists for varied interests, as well as the coal industry.
The Jump Rope Line by Marcia G. Yerman is included in the new Seal Press anthology Dancing at the Shame Prom.
