By Changing Our Own Lives We Can Change History
This video explores necessary risk associated with activism. It captures Daniel Ellsberg as he self reflects on circumstances that prompted his own activism during the Vietnam War and most notably with the Pentagon Papers.
“By Changing Our Own Lives We Can Change History ” is a story of the power and risks individuals are exposed to when working towards collective social change. The narrator, activist, Daniel Ellsberg, explains the troubling circumstances which prompted him to risk his own career. When releasing the Pentagon Papers in the 1970’s, Ellsberg became hyper aware of the shelter those who remain silent benefit from. During these turbulent times, Ellsberg found inspiration from the relentless determination of Anti-Vietnam War protestors and developed a more critical lens to view activism. The story he tells is timeless, and increasingly relevant in todays world. Throughout the video Ellsberg emphasizes the importance of vocalizing dissidence in meaningful ways, as is the duties of all citizens. His plea is juxtaposed with references to modern day social movements, ranging from Anti – Iraq War, Occupy Wall Street to the Women’s March in 2017, who have taken it upon themselves to enact change. The interview was made for the 2004 documentary film Howard Zinn: You Can’t Be Neutral On a Moving Train.
Transcription – Daniel Ellsberg – YCBNMT
— Zoe Ousouljoglou
By Changing Our Own Lives We Can Change History
This video explores necessary risk associated with activism. It captures Daniel Ellsberg as he self reflects on circumstances that prompted his own activism during the Vietnam War and most notably with the Pentagon Papers.
