There are moments in history that serve as both a reflection of where we’ve been and a guidepost for where we need to go. HBO Max’s latest docuseries, Eyes on the Prize III: We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest is exactly that—a powerful, timely continuation of the original Eyes on the Prize. Produced by the brilliant Dawn Porter, the 6-part limited series features a lineup of incredibly talented directors, the majority of whom are women of color. Each episode is uniquely crafted, offering perspectives that illuminate the ongoing fight for justice, equity, and the preservation of our collective history.
I had the honor of attending an intimate pre-launch luncheon at Casa Tua on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, where we celebrated the extraordinary work of the filmmakers behind this project. I was especially proud to uplift my dear friend, the incomparable writer, director, producer, Geeta Gandbhir, who alongside Samantha Knowles, Muta’Ali, Rudy Valdez, Smriti Mundhra, and Asako Gladsjo—all visionary directors—have poured their hearts and souls into this critically important series.
A Documentary for Our Times
This powerful series couldn’t have come at a more urgent moment. Right now, we are witnessing a full-scale war on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in America. The very principles that so many before us fought, bled, and even died for are being systematically dismantled in real-time.
We see it in the attack on our workforce—trailblazers, icons, and leaders being terminated not for wrongdoing, but because they dare to stand for truth and justice. The sudden firing of MSNBC host Joy Reid and the shocking removal of Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., a four-star fighter pilot and top military general, are just the latest examples of how individuals who challenge the status quo are being silenced. These are not just isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a much larger issue—one that threatens to erase decades of progress.
And yet, in the midst of this chaos, we have Eyes on the Prize III.
Why We Must Show Up for This Project
This HBO Max docuseries serves as both a history lesson and a rallying cry. It reminds us that we have always had to fight for our place in this country, and that fight is far from over. Supporting this series is more than just watching a film—it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that we see what’s happening, we remember our history, and we will not be erased.
That’s why I am urging everyone to support this project. Watch it. Share it. Discuss it. Let’s make it clear that our stories matter, that our voices will be heard, our history cannot be erased, and that we stand together in the fight for justice.
A special thank you to my friend and producing partner Ben Crump, who is featured in the series, for always being a voice for the people. I am encouraged by the many brilliant minds who gathered at this special luncheon that was beautifully curated by Cultural Agency’s Shawn Finnie and Linda Guerrero to celebrate this project, including HBO’s SVP of Documentary Programming Sara Rodriguez, WIE Suite CEO Dee Poku, TIME CEO Jessica Sibley, THEM Magazine Editor-in-Chief Sarah Burke, Mike Muse, and so many more.
We Must Keep the Dream Alive
In times like these, I am reminded of the words of our ancestors and civil rights trailblazers who never dreamed of giving up in times of conflict, adversity or despair. In fact, to the contrary, it was in those times they rallied together, stood strong and launched movements.
"True Peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
We have been here before. We have overcome before. And we will rise again.
So let’s keep our Eyes on the Prize—because the future is counting on us.
Comments