Every once in a while, a piece of work comes along that shifts the social climate in a major. Selma is that movie, and now U.S. high schools will have a chance to jump in on the conversation. Thanks to Paramount Home Media Distribution, a copy of Ava DuVernay’s hot button and critically acclaimed film will be gifted to every high school in America for free. Oprah excitedly took to Twitter to share the good news.
So proud to announce that every high school in the U.S. will receive a FREE copy of Selma. Go team Selma! @AVAETC pic.twitter.com/TUnoOzjNMn
— Oprah Winfrey (@Oprah) April 24, 2015
“To think that this triumphant story of dignity and justice will be available to every high school in this country is a realization of many dreams and many hopes,” DuVernay said in a press release.
“We hope to reach all 18 million high school students with the film’s powerful and inspiring story,” said Megan Colligan, president, Worldwide Distribution and Marketing, Paramount Pictures. “With many of these students preparing to vote for the first time in next year’s elections, it is especially fitting that they witness the bravery and fortitude of those who fought to establish the Voting Rights Act of 1965.”
In addition to the actual film, teachers can also get companion study guides to help lead discussions on the film’s depicted events on BazanED.com.