A Documentary Review by Vicki Foreman
In early May 2020, Snohomish, WA, 30 miles north of Seattle, was in the running to be named "Coolest Small Town in America". On May 31st that image was changed by an armed group claiming to be protecting the businesses of Snohomish from the local people who had staged a peaceful protest the night before, standing against the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
What Happened on First Street is a documentary where the black and brown residents speak out about the moment their hometown made national headlines in the wake of the murder. Youth and adults speak the pain of discovering the community they loved did not always love them back.
The film shares narratives of individuals who love Snohomish, and the roller coaster emotions from experiencing racial slurs, microaggressions, bullying, hostility, and in some cases assault. The film also shares the way many in the community, including youth and young adults, led the way and stood up for their community and themselves. They told their stories and asked for elected leaders and citizens to take a stand against tolerating racism in the community.
The mayor of Snohomish ultimately faced a recall for his role in allowing men with automatic weapons to "patrol" main street and harass people of color. The police chief was reassigned for his statements describing tailgating that involved intimidation, Confederate flags, and weapons as festive and celebratory.
The film ends with a challenge for all of us to have tough conversations and listen to the lived experiences of people who are not just like us. We are encouraged to have those conversations with compassion, and love for our neighbors, ALL of our neighbors. Resources are suggested to help viewers follow up, learn from one another, and take steps to heal the injury of racism.
The video can be appreciated by individuals or groups. There are suggestions for discussion as viewers reflect on the Snohomish experience, and the implications for each of us, wherever we live, work, play, and learn.
