Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power

(USA / 2020 / Directed by Abby Ginzberg)

September 3, 5, & 8
Friday 4:15 / Sunday 4:15 / Wednesday 7:00

Speaking Truth to Power tells the complex story of Representative Barbara Lee, a woman who raised 2 sons as a single mother and put herself through school to become one of the most steadfast voices for human rights, peace, and economic and racial justice in the U.S. Congress.

After cutting her teeth as a volunteer for the Black Panther Party and working on a Shirley Chisolm campaign, Lee grew inspired to run for her very first political office. This step launched her onto a path in American politics so singular that, mid-career in 2001, Lee stood up and issued a strident warning in the House of Representatives: “Let us not become the evil we deplore.” In a career-defining moment, she made the lone vote opposing broad authorization of military force following the September 11th attacks, and today she continues her clarion call.

Abby Ginzberg’s documentary reveals how many of the challenges faced by Barbara Lee early in her life provided her with the motivation and commitment to improve the lives of others throughout her tenure as an elected representative. With unique access to sitting members of Congress, it not only introduces the public to Barbara Lee but lends exposure to many others such as Senator Cory Booker, Rep. John Lewis, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, CNN commentator Van Jones, actor Danny Glover, and author Alice Walker – all of whom share insights about what makes Barbara Lee unique as a public servant and as a truth-telling African American woman.

Unrated / 1 hr 22 mins.