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How impactful have documentaries been in bringing about social change?

Margret Ashington

I think documentaries have been very impactful in bringing about social change. They have the power to educate people on important issues, inspire action, and spark conversations that can lead to real change.

One great example of this is the documentary "Blackfish", which exposed the cruelty of keeping orcas in captivity at SeaWorld. After the documentary was released, there was a huge outcry from the public, which led to SeaWorld making changes to its orca shows and eventually ending its orca breeding program altogether. This is a clear example of a documentary having a direct impact on a company and its practices.

Another powerful documentary is "13th", which explores the history of racial inequality in the United States and its connection to the prison system. The documentary has sparked important conversations about mass incarceration and the need for systemic change. It has also been used as a tool in education, with teachers showing it in classrooms to help students learn about social justice issues.

Overall, I think documentaries can have a significant impact on bringing about social change. However, it's important to note that documentaries are just one tool in the toolkit. Real change requires action from individuals, communities, and governments. Documentaries can help raise awareness and inspire action, but they can't do it all on their own.

In the end, it's up to each of us to use the knowledge and inspiration we gain from documentaries to take action and work towards a better world. Whether it's volunteering, donating to organizations that align with our values, or speaking out and advocating for change, we all have a role to play in making the world a better place.