Ava DuVernay on Her Latest Doc '14th'
Variety • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Ava DuVernay’s new documentary “14th” explores the 14th Amendment’s crucial role in American democracy, focusing on birthright citizenship, due process, and equal protection under the law amid recent political challenges.
- The film features interviews with diverse voices including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, Stacey Abrams, and legal scholars, highlighting the amendment’s history and current threats.
- “14th” connects historical opposition to the amendment, rooted in the “Lost Cause” narrative post-Civil War, to contemporary political movements like MAGA, which challenge the amendment’s principles of equality.
- Despite extensive outreach, only a few Republicans participated in the film, reflecting current political divides; DuVernay emphasizes the importance of hearing all sides to understand the ongoing battle over American identity.
- The documentary calls for active civic engagement beyond voting, urging viewers to monitor elected officials, participate in local governance, and foster informed community dialogue to protect democratic principles.
