For more than three decades, Social Action Media has been a pioneering force in documentary filmmaking, using the power of storytelling to spotlight social justice movements and inspire change. Founded by Emmy® Award-winning filmmaker Abby Ginzberg, the production company focuses on sharing compelling stories of perseverance and resistance to ignite action and raise awareness about systemic inequities.
Through its wide-ranging portfolio, Social Action Media has brought to life narratives that challenge audiences to reflect on their role in shaping a just society. The company’s current projects, Waging Change and Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power, exemplify this mission.
Photo Courtesy: Social Action Media / Abby Ginzberg
Waging Change delves into the challenges faced by restaurant servers who earn a sub-minimum wage of $2.13 per hour. By highlighting their fight for One Fair Wage, the documentary illuminates the disparities within the service industry while featuring advocates like Saru Jayaraman, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin. Meanwhile, Barbara Lee: Speaking Truth to Power chronicles Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s unwavering dedication to social justice, civil rights, and political reform, offering a powerful testament to her trailblazing career.
One of Social Action Media’s recent releases, And Then They Came for Us, addresses the World War II-era incarceration of 120,000 Japanese Americans and its relevance to contemporary issues of xenophobia and immigration policy. Featuring George Takei and archival photographs by Dorothea Lange, the film connects historical injustices to ongoing struggles, urging viewers to recognize and resist patterns of discrimination.
Over the years, the company’s films have garnered widespread acclaim. Soft Vengeance: Albie Sachs and the New South Africa, which won a Peabody Award, captures the extraordinary life of anti-apartheid activist and Constitutional Court Justice Albie Sachs. The film explores his resilience in the face of adversity and his unwavering commitment to justice, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Another pivotal film, Agents of Change, highlights the Black-led student protest movements of the late 1960s that led to the establishment of Black and Ethnic Studies programs at universities nationwide. By featuring firsthand accounts from activists, including actor Danny Glover, the documentary bridges past and present, continuing to inspire students and educators alike in the fight for racial equality.
Photo Courtesy: Social Action Media / Abby Ginzberg
Social Action Media’s earlier works include Soul of Justice: Thelton Henderson’s American Journey and Cruz Reynoso: Sowing the Seeds of Justice. These documentaries profile pioneering figures in the judiciary, showcasing the impact of their decisions on civil rights and social justice. Thelton Henderson’s landmark rulings, for instance, brought crucial reforms to California’s prison system, while Cruz Reynoso’s advocacy as the first Latino judge on the California Supreme Court left a lasting legacy despite political challenges.
Abby Ginzberg’s dedication to highlighting underrepresented voices has been a cornerstone of Social Action Media’s success. Her commitment to amplifying stories that challenge societal norms and inspire activism has cemented her reputation as a leading voice in social justice filmmaking. “For over three decades, I’ve been creating films that amplify the voices of agents of change,” Ginzberg has said. “These films are not only a personal passion but also a way to inspire others to join the fight for justice.”
Photo Courtesy: Social Action Media / Abby Ginzberg
In addition to its feature-length documentaries, Social Action Media engages audiences through educational screenings and discussions. Films such as And Then They Came for Us and Agents of Change have been shown at universities and festivals nationwide, sparking critical conversations about democracy, equality, and human rights.
As the fight for justice continues, Social Action Media remains steadfast in its mission to inspire action through storytelling. Each film serves as both a historical record and a call to action, reminding viewers of the power of individual and collective efforts in creating a more equitable future.
For more information about Social Action Media’s films and upcoming projects, visit socialactionmedia.com.
Published by: Annie P.
