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Harriet Tubman documentary premieres at Glenville State University

Pastor Franklin Hairston at the microphone speaks with other panelists during the open discussion following the showing of the documentary “Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom” at Glenville State University on Oct. 28. (Photo Provided)

GLENVILLE — The documentary “Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom” has debuted at Glenville State University.

Held in Glenville State’s Fine Arts Center Auditorium, the Oct. 28 event drew nearly 70 attendees. Glenville State was one of two college’s in the state chosen as a premiere site.

The film goes beyond the legend and introduces the inspiring woman who repeatedly risked her own life and freedom to liberate others from slavery. Born 200 years ago in Maryland, Tubman was a conductor of the Underground Railroad, a Civil War scout, nurse and spy and one of the greatest freedom fighters in the nation’s history.

After the documentary showing, a discussion panel was held with: Cicero Fain, visiting diversity scholar from Marshall University; James Griffin, chairman of the West Virginia Black Heritage Festival board of directors; Pastor Franklin Hariston, president of the Harrison County Chapter of the NAACP; the Rev. Elizabeth Lewis, Glenville Presbyterian Church; Tim Konhaus, assistant professor of history at Glenville State University; and Justin Collier, a student at Glenville State.

Among topics discussed include the role that gender played within enslaved people, the myth of content enslaved people, thoughts on the current climate in terms of rights and their suggestions for the next historic figure who should be featured in a documentary.

“It was truly an honor for GSU to host the screening of ‘Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom.’ Ms. Tubman’s life serves as a reminder that our ability to bring about systemic change is not constrained by our gender, race, or socioeconomic background. Harriet Tubman calls upon us as a community to ensure that we work together to bring human rights and equity to all Americans,” said Luke Bendick, lecturer of social studies education and the panel moderator.

The 60-minute documentary was executive produced by Academy Award-nominated Stanley Nelson and Lynne Robinson and produced and directed by Nelson and Nicole London. The film is narrated by Emmy Award-winning actor Alfre Woodard.

“Glenville State University was honored to be selected as a premiere site for this documentary. It tells the story of a remarkable woman and her dedication to what was right. I encourage everyone to watch it,” Glenville State President Mark Manchin said.

The event was made possible by West Virginia Public Broadcasting and the West Virginia Humanities Council. “Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom” is a co-production of Firelight Films and Maryland Public Television with an appropriation from the State of Maryland. These programs are also made possible by Bowie State University, DIRECTV, and Pfizer Inc.

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