First-time film director Rebekah Henderson clearly illustrates the cost, challenges, excitement, and sometimes disappointment for candidates and their staff running in political races. Running With My Girls communicates to political science majors, high school students, and community members what is involved in deciding to run for local political office: commitment to the community, political views, money, and energy. Politics often begins at the local level.
Henderson focuses on the local political scene in Denver in 2019 when the incumbent mayor and other council members are up for reelection. Denver is undergoing gentrification; and, according to the film, this urban development is second only to that in San Francisco. In Denver’s District Nine, gentrification is happening and community residents fear other districts will be next. Several women from underrepresented groups in the community decide to run for city council office in order to speak up for their residents.
Inspired by Shontel Lewis’s successful candidacy for the Regional Transportation Director, long-time community activist and resident Candi Cdebaca decides to make a bid for office; with the help of supporters, Candi obtains enough signatures to get on the ballot. Candi is the first LGBT Latina candidate who grew up in a home with an abusive father and a mother with mental health issues. Resilient and determined, Candi succeeded to become class president and valedictorian. After high school, Candi became a community activist and was inspired by President Obama’s election to accept an internship in Washington, D.C. Candi runs in District Nine for a position as councilwoman. Candi is determined not to run alone and works with women in other districts from minority groups.
Like Candi, Lisa Calderon faced a difficult childhood. Her Latina mother was stabbed by a boyfriend and her black father became an alcoholic. Smart, beautiful, and proud to be a Latina woman, Lisa obtains a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, law degree, and a doctorate in education. Lisa is passionate about fighting sexual harassment and abuse. She challenges the incumbent mayor who is alleged to have harassed women in city government. Lisa is very supportive of the other minority candidates.
In District Three, Veronica Barela is committed to affordable housing and is credited with fostering cultural events, including the largest Cinco de Mayo parade in the country. Devoted to her district, she is persuaded to run for office and fears her district will be up next for gentrification—which forces local residents out.
In the northeast section of Denver, Shontel Lewis decides to fun for a seat on the city council in District Eleven. Shontel is a single black mother who describes her life as one starting out with a deficit. Shontel works tirelessly in her campaign.
As the title implies, film director Henderson is closely involved in the film. Shots of Henderson talking with the city council candidates, attending political functions, and interviewing contenders illustrate her commitment to Running With My Girls. Suitable for showing in a public screening at community political events, high school or college political science classes, and general viewing, this compelling film is recommended.
What academic library shelves would this title be on?
Running With My Girls would be shelved with political science (elections, activism, progressive ideology), communications (fundraising, public speaking), and race relations.
What can this educational documentary be used as a resource for?
Running With My Girls would be suitable for community groups, individuals contemplating running for office, classroom engagement, and general interest by library customers.