Right in time for the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Selma chronicles the events that led to the passage of the legislation and helped shape the Civil Rights Movement.
Now, thanks to the generosity of contributors including power broker Vernon Jordan, BET Chairman Debra Lee, Time Warner CEO Richard Parsons, American Express Chairman Ken Chenault and more, a fund has been created which will allow 27,000 NYC students to view the film in select theatres January 8 through January 19.
Bill Lewis, who also contributed to the fund said, “Martin Luther King, Jr.’s momentous journey in Alabama is an important piece of American history. We are passionate about bringing this story to New York City’s students and we encourage business leaders in other cities to organize similar programs so that more students around the country have the chance to see this powerful film about an epic chapter in American history.”
Directed by Ava DuVernay, the Golden Globe nominated film has already gained praise for it’s depiction of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., portrayed by David Oyelowo. In addition to the screenings in New York, those in Selma will reportedly be able to view the film for free as well.
Take a look at the trailer below: