Journeys Through the Red, White, & Blue, a documentary produced by a team of New York City youth of color, is specifically designed to address the interests and concerns of their peers. Blending humor, plainspoken language, civics lessons, and interviews with friends, family members, local political leaders and community activists, this engaging documentary puts a face on “the youth vote.” Following the stories of Brian, Shon, and Tidiane, the film offers three unique explorations into the voting process: on the balance between local and national politics, on the legacy of African American voting rights, and on the rights and possibilities for immigrant participation.
Each story honestly struggles to answer the question “What is the value of my vote?” Because the stories are not adult-driven or preachy but are earnest inquires profiling these young men of color who were unsure of why they should get involved, this documentary is uniquely positioned to open up dialogue among youth audiences, who like the producers, have been confused and turned off to politics in the past, but may become informed, inspired, and galvanized to take action now.