“In this age of the #MeToo movement, Black Lives Matter, and other campaigns for gender and racial equity in the workplace, it is essential to be knowledgeable of the lived experiences of these pioneers who came before, such as Madeline Anderson. She had the support of some generous individuals, but mostly had to make her own way through dangerous territory during a tumultuous time in this country’s history.” —Michelle Materre, SFFILM

Honored by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture as the first black women to direct a documentary film, Madeline Anderson’s landmark films ‘Integration Report 1’ (1960) and ‘I Am Somebody’ (1970), both newly scanned and digitized by the museum, bring viewers to the front lines of the fight for civil rights. A testament to the courage of the workers and activists at the heart of her films as well as to her own bravery, tenacity and skill, the films of Madeline Anderson are essential historical records of activism and formative works of cinema. From her childhood growing up in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to her work with directors including Ricky Leacock, D.A. Pennebaker and the Maysles Brothers, Anderson’s spirit, example and vision continue to inspire today.

Image credit: ©Myrna Suarez