The Crosstown Arts Film Series presents Memphis 13 at Crosstown Theater.

Crosstown Theater
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Tickets: Free screening
Doors at 6:30 p.m. | Films begin at 7:00 p.m. (sharp!)

Q&A with special guest after the film

Daniel Kiel / 2011 / 35 minutes / Not Rated

First grade can be a scary thing, even without the burden of making history. In October 1961, 13 first graders became some of the smallest pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement when they desegregated the Memphis City Schools. ‘The Memphis 13’ is their story. This documentary collects the stories of 13 families united by a comment moment in history, but experiences individually; stories of normal children living through an extraordinary moment. A half century later, they are proud of having broken a barrier, but many remain burdened by this difficult experience. The film uncovers a hidden story of the Movement, honors the children who lived it, and raises questions about the role of children in movements for social change. With a special guest panel discussion after the film.

The Crosstown Arts Film Series showcases a diverse collection of independent, international, historically significant, artistic, experimental, cult, underground, and documentary features.