Memphis, Spring 1968 marked the dramatic climax of the Civil Rights movement. AT THE RIVER I STAND skillfully reconstructs the two eventful months that transformed a strike by Memphis sanitation worker into a national conflagration, and disentangles the complex historical forces that came together with the inevitability of tragedy at the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This documentary brings into sharp relief issues that have only become more urgent in the intervening years: the connection between economic and civil rights, debates over strategies for change, the demand for full inclusion of African Americans in American life and the fight for dignity for public employees and all working people. In the 1960s, Memphis’ 1,300 sanitation workers formed the lowest caste of a deeply racist society, earning so little they qualified for welfare. In the film, retired workers recall their fear about taking on the entire white power structure when they struck for higher wages and union recognition. But local civil rights leaders and the Black community soon realized the strike was part of the struggle for economic justice for all African Americans.

“More than any other Civil Rights documentary, this is a deeply emotional, riveting narration of black working-class resistance that speaks to the current crisis and jars our collective memory. To see these determined, dignified sanitation workers and to witness the Black Memphis community’s solidarity with the strikers was enough to bring tears.” – Robin D.G. Kelley, Columbia University

“Has all the impact of Eyes on the Prize. It would seem almost inconceivable not to acquire this video. Beautifully conceived, produced and presented.” – Video Rating Guide for Libraries

“One of the most clearheaded, evenhanded documentaries about the civil rights movement you’ll ever see, and a piece of gripping story-telling as well.” – Dallas Observer

“An excellent film on the movement which drew Martin Luther King to Memphis and his death. It reveals how the black and labor movements both win by struggling together!” – Julian Bond, Chair, NAACP

“The struggle and triumph of dignity over injustice is the luminous tapestry of all great social movements. At the River I Stand is an inspiring visual testament and a call to witness to every viewer.” – Gerald McEntee, President, AFSCME

“More than any other Civil Rights documentary, this is a deeply emotional, riveting narration of black working-class resistance that speaks to the current crisis and jars our collective memory. To see these determined, dignified sanitation workers and to witness the Black Memphis community’s solidarity with the strikers was enough to bring tears.”- Robin D.G. Kelley, Columbia University

THIS FILM SCREENING IS NOT TO BE MISSED!!

The screening will be followed by a Q&A.

This event will take place on FRUDAY 17 JANUARY 2025 from 19:00 to 20:30

The event will be held at The Black Cultural Centre Islington, 16–18 Hornsey Road, N7 7BT. Approx 5 mins walk from Holloway Road (Piccadilly Line) tube station.

Food and drinks will be on sale.

Book your FREE ticket here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/free-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-film-screening-at-the-river-i-stand–tickets-1123735295519?aff=oddtdtcreator