Chisholm ‘72: Unbought & Unbossed

This invigorating documentary recalls a surprisingly forgotten landmark in American political history: the late Shirley Chisholm's bid for the 1972 Democratic presidential nomination. Chisholm had already set a precedent four years earlier as the first African-American woman elected to Congress, but the political establishment of the day was not prepared for a presidential candidate who was neither white nor male. The media kept her campaign out of the central spotlight, while the two groups which might have been her core constituency (African-American leadership and the powerful feminist movement) conspicuously avoided her, believing she could not possibly win. As Shola Lynch's excellent PBS P.O.V.-aired and Sundance festival nominated Chisholm ‘72: Unbought & Unbossed demonstrates--through archival clips and informative interviews--despite these and other considerable obstacles (including problems with fundraising), Chisholm offered a mature challenge to the status quo and constantly presented herself as a cogent alternative to the favored sons of the campaign, none of whom rose to the occasion (initial frontrunner Edmund Muskie doomed his race with a public display of tears while eventual nominee George McGovern handed the Democrats their worst defeat to date). Many younger voters who were coming to the polls for the first time were impressed with Chisholm's candor, wit, and ability to speak frankly and honestly to the country; indeed, it is difficult to watch this film without wondering how much America might have gained if Chisholm had reached the White House--either as president or in a cabinet position where her intellect and energy would've been used to its fullest. All told, this is both a fascinating visit into the past and a heartfelt tribute to a genuine political hero. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)