Media for Social Change

Catalog description

This course focuses on the ways in which causes for activism and social justice issues are presented in front of and behind the camera, and on the way film movements and organizations use these dynamics to magnify historically marginalized populations and urgent causes. Through film screenings, readings, lectures, guest panels, and written assignments, we will explore how films and other forms of media define and depict activism and social change in direct and subversive ways. The course will also consider how films function as proponents for raising awareness, shifting public policy, and transforming lives. Considerable time will be spent on the ways veteran and emerging filmmakers and media institutions on a national and local scale pursue productive dialogue and substantive action.