In a special iteration of our CJTO Watch Party we are watching It Takes a Riot: Race, Rebellion, and Reform. Co-Producer and Writer of the film, Simon Black will join us before the screening to provide context and insight into the documentary.
Doc Summary: On May 4, 1992 in Toronto, a march against anti-Black police violence turned into a riot. The march was organized by the Black Action Defense Committee, a civil rights group and police and criminal justice system watchdog founded by members of Toronto’s Black community. While media and politicians called it a riot, others, including anti-racism activists, called it a “rebellion,” even an “uprising.” “It Takes A Riot” is a provocative new documentary film exploring the events of May 4, 1992, its historical context, political impact, and relevance to contemporary struggles against anti-Black racism. On the 25th anniversary of the Yonge Street “riot”—and with racial injustice, police killings of Black people, and the Black Lives Matter movement on the front pages—this documentary asks: What does it take for Black people to get justice in this society?
Directed by Howard Grandison Written by Simon Black and Howard Grandison Produced by Idil Abdillahi, Simon Black and Howard Grandison
