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How

George Holliday How

You may not recognize his name, but you've probably seen his film. It wasn't a Hollywood blockbuster, but it was powerful enough to highlight racial issues within the Los Angeles police department and, some say, contribute to the LA riots which took place 10 years ago. When Mr. Holliday filmed the beating of Rodney King, I'm sure he couldn't anticipate the effect his camcorder footage would have on our society.

To often folks complain about the effect of the mass media shaping society's views. However, do not overlook the influence that individuals, activists, and nonprofits can apply with their own media tools. Picking up the camera and microphone can put power into our own hands. Frequent flexing of the media centric skills and power is necessary if the outcomes are going to generate strong messages.

Numerous organizations, such as Media Rights and Witness, recognize the potential that documentaries and video footage can have when used by activists to encourage public action.

TechSoup's content partnership with Media Rights has articles on use of media.
• Using Grassroots Documentary Films for Social Change