Tonight, the ACLU of Maine will co-present a provocative new documentary at SPACE Gallery. "Better This World" tells the story of two friends from Texas who were caught up in protest activities at the 2008 Republican National Convention and who eventually were charged with terrorism-related offenses. The film raises questions about the application of "war on terrorism" tropes and techniques to domestic law enforcement, and it provides a window into the operation of our criminal justice process. In reviewing the film for the New York Times, Brian Stelter drew attention to a "subtheme about surveillance," noting that the film is filled with actual footage of incidents described, taken from street cameras, an informant's camera, and (in one disturbing segment) a Walmart camera.
Following the showing, I'll be leading a discussion of some of the issues raised by the film. Doors open at 7, and the film begins at 7:30. SPACE Gallery is located at 538 Congress Street in Portland. Tickets are $7 ($5 for SPACE members). Hope to see you there.
