Virginia Film Festival

Clarissa Doutherd is a single Black mother and activist living in Oakland, California who, after becoming unhoused with her infant son Xavier, embarks on a crusade to champion childcare and preschool as a human right. Her tireless energy, enthusiasm, humor, and natural leadership skills draw mothers of all backgrounds to the growing movement, but ultimately contribute to the kind of personal health crisis seen so often in overtaxed working mothers, and especially women of color.

These issues only multiply during the pandemic, causing Clarissa and her colleagues to double down on their efforts and pushing one of our nation’s most pressing issues to the forefront. Tamara Perkins’ documentary is an inspiring example of how one woman’s battle can become a rallying cry across America.

Introduction by Ravi Respeto (United Way of Greater Charlottesville)
Discussion with director Tamara Perkins, editor Sara Maamouri, subject Clarissa Doutherd, and Brian Johns (VA Organizing), moderated by Krysta Jones (Vote Lead Impact)