
Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power
By Monique Jones,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Heartfelt doc celebrates politician's integrity, compassion.

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Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power
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What's the Story?
BARBARA LEE: SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER is a heartfelt, inspiring documentary about the highest-ranking Black woman in the U.S. Congress as of 2021, Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), and how her life story has impacted and inspired her impressive career. Lee's fellow members of Congress, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ayanna Pressley, Cory Booker, and the late John Lewis, also speak to Lee's ability to fight for the people who need the most help.
Is It Any Good?
Abby Ginzberg's documentary is a charming look at the life of a genuinely inspiring politician. The film recounts the story of Lee's life, starting with her birth, which was affected by medical racism, to her time as a single mother on government assistance and as a college student learning the ins and outs of community outreach and politics.
It's easy to be discouraged by the many stories of ineffectiveness in U.S. politics. But Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power gives viewers hope that there are those in office who are truly effecting change for those who need it most. The film also has the ability to inspire others to take change into their own hands by diving into community organizing and political studies. The film shows that it takes courage to stand up for what you believe in, even when you're ahead of the curve -- such as when Lee was the sole vote against giving President George W. Bush unparalleled power to wage war after 9/11. And it encourages viewers, particularly young, politically minded ones, to feel that they can make a difference. Lee's message of perseverance teaches those wishing to follow her lead that the power is yours: All you need is a commitment to your values and morals, the willingness to work hard, and the excitement to get the job done.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about integrity in politics. How has Lee demonstrated integrity during her career? How has she inspired others to help their communities with integrity? What other character strengths does she embody?
What impact have Lee's personal hardships had on her career?
How have mentors shaped Lee's career? Why was it important for her to see Black role models in politics? Why does representation matter?
Movie Details
- In theaters: August 20, 2021
- On DVD or streaming: August 20, 2021
- Cast: Barbara Lee , Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez , John Lewis , Ayanna Pressley
- Director: Abby Ginzburg
- Inclusion Information: Female actors, Latino actors
- Studio: Greenwich Entertainment
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Activism , Great Girl Role Models
- Character Strengths: Communication , Compassion , Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time: 83 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: February 1, 2023
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