Renowned political activist Assata Shakur, also known as Joanne Chesimard, is set to be the focus of both a documentary feature and a scripted project, produced by filmmakers Giselle and Stephen Bailey. The siblings, known for their work on HBO’s “Seen & Heard: The History of Black Television,” are embarking on this significant endeavor with the backing of Shakur’s daughter, Kakuya Shakur.
Assata Shakur was a prominent member of the Black Liberation Army and had been a fugitive from the U.S. government since escaping prison in 1979. She passed away on September 25 in Havana, Cuba, where she had been granted political asylum. The Bailey siblings expressed their belief that “Assata’s story is important to all Americans as it reveals the powers that divide us and our capacity to heal,” showcasing the relevance of her life and experiences in contemporary discussions about justice and equality.
The documentary will feature exclusive access granted by civil rights lawyer Lennox Hinds, who served as counsel to Shakur, and it will include contributions from notable figures such as activist and professor Angela Davis, who will serve as executive producer. This project is supported by several organizations, including Sundance, Firelight Media, and Chicken & Egg Films, which provided a key research and development grant supported by Netflix’s fund for creative equity.
Giselle and Stephen Bailey have been recognized for their impactful storytelling, with Giselle previously receiving a Concordia Fellowship for directing. Their collaborative efforts have focused on meaningful narratives, and they aim to shed light on Shakur’s struggles and legacy through these forthcoming projects.
As anticipation builds for the release of the documentary and scripted projects, the Bailey siblings are poised to deliver a profound exploration of Assata Shakur’s life and the ongoing implications of her activism.
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