Join ECMS and FCFC families to watch and discuss this powerful documentary in an intimate setting. 13th is a 2016 documentary by director Ava DuVernay (Selma, 2014) that explores the outsized role of race in the United States criminal justice system. The film takes its title from the Thirteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which outlawed slavery except as punishment for a crime. We invite viewers to enter this discussion and screening with an open mind and an open heart, and to be willing to experience both the discomfort and the transformation that may come from encountering this American story.

Why are we showing this at our school? At ECMS, we are committed to transforming institutions of public education into equitable, anti-biased, anti-racist places of learning. Examining the history of institutional racism as well as its relation to our everyday lives is critical to this work. Elm City Montessori is committed to raising awareness and facilitating courageous conversations around the injustices faced by marginalized groups, and to actively work to achieve social justice.

Please, no children.

13th is a documentary geared toward adults and includes language and content that would be disturbing to children. We understand that finding childcare can be a challenge, but we want you to be able to experience the content and engage in conversation without distraction.