Published: December 22, 2011
Dear Friends of Groundswell,
We live in a time of smart phones, 24/7 screen culture and increasing inequality between haves and have nots. As documentary filmmakers we have the ability to make a difference. Groundswell catalyzes and communicates that difference.
Our Groundswell model for social change is now recognized by tribal officials, federal agencies, law schools, environmental organizations, media critics, philanthropists, educators and students. What does Groundswell do?
Our Groundswell team transfers skills to disadvantaged communities. We create films, websites, social media, curriculum and live events featuring stories from marginalized communities. We amplify remarkable but unheard-of voices. We inform mainstream media. We put pressure on responsible parties. In the Navajo Nation we give voice to the voiceless and help the tribe advocate for the clean up of Cold War uranium contamination.
We are very pleased to announce two new projects currently in production:
Groundswell is working with residents and the Mayor in the Village of DePue, Illinois. Home to a now shuttered zinc mill and it’s vast mound of contaminated waste, this tiny hamlet of 1,800 mostly minorities has been declared a Superfund site. The long promised cleanup, delayed for more than a decade, remains a pipe dream. Contaminants from the waste permeate groundwater and seep into Lake DePue, a precious natural resource.
The Village, local schools, and Northwestern University’s environmental law and chemistry programs invited Groundswell to lead a new media campaign that will give voice to residents and put pressure on the responsible parties, Exxon and CBS/Viacom.
Are you hungry for change? Food Patriots is a new documentary film in progress about trying to raise chickens in our own backyard while seeking stories of people who are changing the way Americans eat, buy and think about food. Have you got a good food story?
Your donation helps Groundswell give voice to the voiceless and bring people together across all the boundaries that typically divide. We appreciate your continued support.
Wishing you peace, good health and fresh eggs in the New Year.
Sincerely,
— Jeff & Jennifer
Groundswell Co-Founders
