Into Light, Directed by Jessica Graham (California) - On this 100th anniversary of women's suffrage in the United States, our timely short film, Into Light, highlights the power of our hard-won right to vote, by bringing to life suffragist Inez Milholland's inspiring final speech. She died only a few weeks later, sacrificing herself for a cause she considered even more important than her life. Hardly anyone has heard of her, and we aim to change that. In the current social and political climate, Into Light reminds us that we must never forget the women and men who fought for equal rights - and to carry forth their legacy by voting and taking positive action for equality. As my plane landed on the east coast, coming from LA, I couldn’t put the book down. The story of Inez Milholland had captivated me completely. I barely heard the announcements from the flight crew and I would have happily continued on to the next destination, if only to read a few more pages of Inez’ biography. The book was highlighted and dogeared to high heaven, and I was in h eaven knowing that I would have a chance to help tell a small piece of this amazing woman’s story. Inez died in 1916, a martyr for women’s rights, and much has changed since then. And there is so much more work to do. The Equal Rights Amendment, giving women the same rights as men in the eyes of the law, has not yet been added to the Constitution. The #metoo movement made clear (to anyone to whom it wasn’t already) the extent to which women and girls are abused and assaulted in this country. In the 92 years of the Academy Awards only 1 woman has won Best Director. These are but a few examples of how far we still have to go. But without the original suffragists, such as Inez Milholland, we may still be unable to even vote. As we continue to break the glass ceilings and fight for all human rights, we must remember and honor those who came before us, and those who came before them. In this way we are stronger, a multi-generational line of humans who believe that we are all created equal and that we all deserve to be seen, heard, and respected. It is my sincere hope that INTO LIGHT will be a vehicle for continued positive change and deeper connection with the women who were willing to risk it all to give us the rights we have today. - Jessica Graham, Director, INTO LIGHT
Oregon Short Film Festival - Winter 2021 Official Selection
Nevada Short Film Festival - Spring 2021 Official Selection
