America at 250: A Documentary Film Series

In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the Chandler Park Branch is hosting a documentary film series that explores what it means to be American, as well as whose stories are preserved and whose aren't in the annals of American history. These documentaries will be screened Tuesday evenings at 6pm in August. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

All of these films are available to stream through Kanopy, a streaming service available to many library card holders.

Tuesday, August 4, at 6pm: James Hemings: Ghost in America's Kitchen (2022)

If you've ever eaten macaroni and cheese, French fries or ice cream, you've enjoyed the contributions of America's unknown culinary founding father, James Hemings. James Hemings was the first American trained as a master chef; he was also the brother-in-law and enslaved property of Thomas Jefferson.

Tuesday, August 11, at 6pm: The Warrior Tradition (2019)

The Warrior Tradition tells the astonishing, heartbreaking, inspiring, and largely-untold story of Native Americans in the United States military. Why would Indian men and women put their lives on the line for the very government that took their homeland?

Tuesday, August 18, at 6pm: Landfall (2021)

Through shard-like glimpses of everyday life in post-Hurricane María Puerto Rico, Landfall is a cautionary tale for our times. Set against the backdrop of protests that toppled the governor in 2019, the film offers a prismatic portrait of collective trauma and resistance as Puerto Ricans navigate dismantled social services and newcomers eager to profit.

Tuesday, August 25, at 6pm: I Learn America (2013)

Five immigrant teenagers come together during the school year at the International High School as they struggle to learn their new land.

This is NOT a ticketed event, which means seats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Registration is highly encouraged in order to receive important updates about this film series. Questions? Email msummers@detroitpubliclibrary.org!