Ever watch something and knew almost immediately that what you were watching was important, amazing, and groundbreaking? As soon as it was done you went and told everybody- making pleas with them to watch the movie for their own benefit.

On Friday of last week, I sat at my desk in the Ella Baker Center offices and watched an entire film, refusing to leave my desk  even for a simple bathroom break. I was that captivated. The film was the highly acclaimed documentary The Interrupters, by Steve James and Alex Kotlowitz.( see trailer below)

The Interrupters tells the stories of three "violence interrupters" who, with bravado, humility, and even humor try to protect their Chicago communities from the violence they themselves once perpetuated. The film, frankly, is a shot to the gut, wakes you up, slaps you around a little bit, and then lifts you back up all in an hour and a half. This film holds particular importance to me because of the recent, senseless violence in Oakland. A film like this highlights the solutions and challenges of creating lasting peace on our streets.

So here is what’s really exciting-- you can watch this film and have an opportunity to meet some of the amazing people doing important work in Chicago that are highlighted in the movie.

Free Community Screening
The Interrupters
A Film By Steve James and Alex Kotlowitz
Thursday, February 9
4:00-5:00 PM Light Reception
5:00-7:00 PM Film Screening
7:00-8:00 PM Panel Discussion

Oakland Museum of California
James Moore Theater
1000 Oak Street
Entrance on 10th Street

RSVP here http://oaklandinterrupters.eventbrite.com/

After the film, join us for a panel discussion moderated by yours truly that will feature two of the film's inspiring subjects, along with youth and adult leaders engaged in violence prevention work in Oakland.

If you can't make the film screening, The national airing will happen next Tuesday, February 14 on KQED, Channel 9 at 10 PM in Northern California. If you are outside the area, you will have to check your local listings.