Brownsville, TX | Courtesy of Shark Party Media

Text: Belle McIntyre

In this unflinching but factually accurate documentary about the great state of Texas, which increasingly looks like huge swaths of Republican America, one is confronted with the depths of illiberalism and mean-spiritedness of the politicians, their sway over significant parts of the population and the pain and suffering their policies are causing. The film focuses on a handful of super dedicated, intrepid optimists bringing their messages of change for a more inclusive, fairer, compassionate, kinder and gentler way of life. The Republicans have been deeply entrenched for decades and have become increasingly right wing, denying all manner of rights and freedoms. This an uphill battle.

Beto O’Rourke | Courtesy of Shark Party Media

The film does a deep dive into the 2022 midterm elections which produced mixed results, but more positive than not. The issues which these advocates address are prison reform, systemic racism, immigration, abortion, LGBT rights. They are an impressive group working tirelessly to create a groundswell and having some encouraging success.

El Paso, TX | Courtesy of Shark Party Media

Beto O’Rourke’s unsuccessful run for governor is examined in granular detail. The emphasis on door to door contact is organized like a military exercise with unifying enthusiasm. His energy and appealing openness are very alluring. He made progress in spite of not winning. Lina Hidalgo, was first elected at 27 in 2018 as County Judge of Harris County, the third largest county, which includes Houston. The first Latino woman, and rising star, she posed quite a threat to Republican power. She had many challengers in 2022. But she won her second term. Greg Casar, a charismatic former city council member in Austin, ran for Congress as a progressive, advocating for clean energy, jobs, gun control and immigration reform. He believes in concensus building and he won handily. He has an authentic sincere appeal.

Linda Hidalgo | Courtesy of Shark Party Media

The rest of the individuals who are spotlighted are advocates and organizers, whose activities cannot be overestimated. Brianna Brown is a powerhouse committed to reaching out to people of color to encourage and enable them to vote. Particularly vital since Texas passed the most restrictive voter suppression laws in the country. Her team has contacted 1.4 million black voters. Adri Pérez advocates visibly and loudly for LGBT rights and protection. In particular they are concerned with the harsh anti-trans legislation recently enacted. Tory Gavito is a political strategist who works nationally to bring resources for change in places that need them most. She credited with helping to flip Arizona and Georgia in 2020. She is now focusing on Texas and the Southwest. Anthony Graves, a former death row inmate who was falsely accused and ultimately exonerated after serving 18 years is a powerful advocate for criminal justice reform. He also counsels prisoners in detention and after release on coping with the system and the cruelty.

Greg Casar | Courtesy of Shark Party Media

The monumental efforts that these people mount are making a tangible difference in shifting priorities for the better. They are truly inspiring and should be embraced and emulated by us all.

It gives one reason for hope.