Movies That Matter Film Series returns

At The Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

By Erin Blankenship, President & CEO, Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

Make plans to attend the annual Movies that Matter (MTM) Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center this fall. Movies that Matter was suggested by GenShoah of Southwest Florida and is now in its eighth year! Each important film will feature a talkback and discussion. Each year, films shown as part of MTM are carefully chosen by committee members who are dedicated to shedding light on important human rights issues and creating opportunities for dialogue.

Oct. 23, we are showing “Free For All: The Public Library.” The film tells the story of the pioneers behind the “Free Library Movement” and takes a look at those working in today’s libraries while facing closures and book bans.

On Oct. 30, see “Change, Not Charity: The Americans with Disabilities Act.” This film recalls the long fight for accessibility and equality that brought about the Americans with Disabilities Act. Featuring interviews with key participants, “Change, Not Charity” tells the stories of individuals who spoke out for change in one of our nation’s civil rights movements. Many thanks to WGCU for partnering with us to show these films!

We are featuring Academy Awardnominated “Facing Fear” on Nov. 6. This short documentary recounts the story of Matthew Boger, a gay 13-year-old who was viciously beaten by a group of Neo-Nazis, and his chance meeting with former skinhead Tim Zaal years later. It wasn’t long after meeting that the two men realized that Zaal was one of Boger’s attackers.

Each film will feature a discussion with expert panelists and offer an opportunity for audience conversation. Light refreshments will be served.

There is no cost to attend, but sponsorships starting at $75 are available and donations are always appreciated. Visit www. HMCEC.org for more information, to become a sponsor, or to reserve your seat.

“Movies That Matter: The Steve Brazina Memorial Film Series” is held in partnership with GenShoah of SWFL, Temple Shalom, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Council, the Interfaith Alliance of SWFL, and Naples United Church of Christ.