UAB Film and Deliberation Project

The UAB Film and Deliberation Series was developed after two David Mathews Center interns attended a screening of “Order of Myths”, a documentary about the segregated practices of Mardi Gras in Mobile.  They were very impressed with the dialogue that took place following the film. Every individual in the room was willing to share their opinion, and all left the room looking at the issue from a different perspective. The UAB interns believed that such a structure for discussion, where hot-topic documentaries are followed by a deliberation, would be very beneficial for students to learn about issues and gain new perspective from their peers.

The series began in September 2011 with the screening of “The Other Side of Immigration.” This documentary, based on over 700 interviews with struggling families in Mexico, was a great kick-off event. Given the current interest in this issue throughout the state, attendees had very strong opinions on what actions should be taken. Despite the heightened passion, students were able to have a respectful conversation with the realization that common ground exists.

Later that month, the interns screened a documentary entitled, “American Refugees: Homelessness in Four Movements,” which was developed and filmed by a UAB sociology professor. The film provides a fascinating look inside the world of Birmingham’s homeless community.

In October 2011, the David Mathews Center Jean O’Connor-Snyder interns partnered with the International Studies Department/student organization to screen “No Man’s Land.” Dr. Renato Corbetta, a political science professor at UAB, recommended this award-winning film. It explores the role of the United Nations in peacekeeping efforts during the Bosnian War of the early-mid 90s. Although about a specific event, the film led the group to discuss a number of aspects about the United Nations, including its effectiveness at resolving conflicts and improving economic development.

From October 24-28, the UAB Global and Community Leadership Honors Program held a number of events dedicated to raising awareness about illiteracy in Alabama. The David Mathews Center interns decided to partner with the GCL program to screen “Inside Out” as an event for their illiteracy week. The film, developed by the Birmingham-based Mattie C. Stewart Foundation, provides students with an inside look at the effects of dropping out of school. Following the screening, attendees shared stories about friends and family who had dropped out and what consequences they had faced.

In November 2011, the interns partnered with the Student Alliance Against Poverty to screen “Critical Condition.” The documentary examines our nation’s growing healthcare crisis. It follows four families who are struggling with medical problems and lack the financial resources to afford health insurance. Because of the current debate about recent healthcare legislation, the attendees were very passionate and willing to share their opinions on the issue.

The “Film and Deliberation Series” has had amazing success at bringing students together to deliberate on today’s pressing public issues. In the upcoming spring semester, the interns hope to expand the series into the Birmingham community, holding several screenings at locations around the metropolitan area.

Screening locations and times can be found on the Mathews Center calendar.

- Jordan Bailey (UAB Jean O’Connor-Snyder Undergraduate Research Intern)