‘First Rainbow Coalition’ screening, panel discussion is Dec. 1

November 21, 2019

‘First Rainbow Coalition’ screening, panel discussion is Dec. 1

A film that looks at a groundbreaking, multi-ethic coalition in Chicago in the late 1960s will be shown next month at the Carbondale Public Library.

“The First Rainbow Coalition,” a 2019 film produced and directed by Ray Santisteban, will be presented at 2:30 p.m., Dec. 1, at the library, at 405 W. Main St. 

The film and panel discussion are free and the public is invited.

This film is one of Indie Lens Pop-Up, a series of community film screenings that addresses a common theme --  “What’s your vision for the neighborhood?” -- and reinforces WSIU Public Broadcasting’s One Region All Neighbors campaign to recognize people who demonstrate kindness and compassion.

After the film, a panel of Race Unity Group of Carbondale members will discuss topics and issues depicted “The First Rainbow Coalition.” The film uses rare archival footage and interviews with former coalition members in addressing issues including police brutality and substandard housing. The film looks at factors that contributed to the organization’s collapse in 1973 after just four years, but also how it became a model for future activists.

WSIU Public Broadcasting and the Carbondale Public Library are program sponsors.

The film will make its broadcast premiere at 9 p.m., Jan. 27, on WSIU-TV.