Nearly three years after the Ferguson, MO uprising captivated the nation and the world, Fuse (www.fuse.tv), a multiplatform media brand reflecting the wide-ranging tastes and attitudes of the fast-growing, Latino and multicultural 18-34 audience, will broadcast the world television premiere of “Show Me Democracy” on Saturday, April 29 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
The film, following 7 St. Louis college students in the wake of the uprising, is the first release in Fuse’s recently announced “We The Dreamers” documentary series highlighting young, idealistic and diverse people who are celebrating their cultural heritage and identity, confronting issues and overcoming prejudice.
Directed by Dan Parris, “Show Me Democracy” centers on 7 St. Louis college students as they evolve into advocates and activists, demanding change through policy and protest. The feature-length documentary chronicles their diverse approaches to combating racism and police brutality; advocating for educational reform; and asks the question: Can a small group of young people make a difference in complex and imperfect systems?
“As the kickoff to our new documentary series, Show Me Democracy delivers a strong message to our young and diverse audience who are always primed to take on the call of engagement and action,” said Fuse Media Senior VP of Content Strategy, Marc Leonard. “We’d like to go beyond a traditional broadcast and ignite a multiplatform conversation around each title, with television serving as the catalyst to a conversation across online, mobile, and social to raise awareness of crucial issues.”
Director Parris added, “There is both a crucial and delicate balance between the loud cries of protest and the careful consideration of ways to solve the greatest issues of society. Our future leaders are a variety of races, backgrounds and experiences. I hope this film has the effect of informing the viewers to embrace, not fight, these agents of change. I’m delighted Fuse has provided a platform to help tell this story.”
“Show Me Democracy” is produced by Speak Up Productions, in collaboration with The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis and Continuity.
Partial support for the making of the film was provided from the Missouri Arts Council, Missouri Humanities Council, Regional Arts Council and the Greater St. Louis Community Foundation.
Below, watch a promo for the upcoming documentary, which premieres on Fuse on April 29: