The Reluctant Radical film screening will start at 6:30pm on Saturday, March 30, 2019 with a Reception to follow at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Lakeland. This event is Free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted.
THE RELUCTANT RADICAL is a documentary film that follows activist and Oregon resident Ken Ward as he confronts his fears and puts himself in the direct path of the fossil fuel industry in an effort to combat climate change. The film reveals both the personal costs and also the fulfillment that comes from following one’s moral calling-‐-‐ even if that means breaking the law. Audiences may not always agree with Ken’s actions, but his perspective and urgency promotes discussion and introspection about whether any of us are doing what is needed to avert the environmental catastrophe at our doorstep.
THE RELUCTANT RADICAL follows Ken through a series of direct actions intended to stave off climate change, culminating with his participation in the coordinated action that shut down all the U.S. tar sands oil pipelines in 2016. As the resulting trial that threatens to put him behind bars for 20 years unfolds, we are asked to consider: If a crime is committed in order to prevent a greater crime, is it forgivable? Is it, in fact, necessary?
Director Lindsey Grayzel was one of four independent filmmakers to be arrested and charged with crimes for filming the activists. The filmmakers’ arrests contributed to the alarm that press freedom and First Amendment rights have increasingly come under attack as law enforcement and prosecutors favor corporate fossil fuel interests over citizens’ rights.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Lakeland is located at 3140 Troy Ave. Lakeland, FL 33803.
For more information, please call 863-646-3715.
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