On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients, including a posthumous honor to civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer, one of the greatest leaders of the Civil Rights Movement and the subject of WMM release FANNIE LOU HAMER’S AMERICA, directed by Joy Davenport and produced by Monica Land (Fannie Lou Hamer’s grandniece). The documentary, which won Best TV Feature Documentary at the IDA Awards, offers an intimate, powerful portrait of her life and legacy and is a testament to Hamer’s tireless work for civil rights and the betterment of marginalized communities.
From a Mississippi sharecropper to a fearless, eloquent voice for voting rights and gender equality, Hamer’s life was marked by her fight for justice, including the landmark moments where she defied injustice, like her infamous testimony at the Democratic National Convention and her work organizing Black voter registration in Mississippi. Filmmaker Monica Land shared how important it is for younger generations to understand Hamer’s legacy, “This is why our film about her life is so important. It allows a new generation to get to know her and appreciate the freedoms they have because of her.”
FANNIE LOU HAMER’S AMERICA allows us to reflect on Hamer’s enduring legacy, one that continues to inspire and challenge us to fight for justice. This is a film that should be seen by all who care about the history of civil rights and the fight for equality.
The film is available to book or purchase for screenings, making it a perfect educational resource and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for justice and equality. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the incredible story of Fannie Lou Hamer and the ongoing relevance of her work.
Doris Hamer Richardson accepted the Presidential Media of Freedom award on behalf of Hamer’s family and her cousin, Monica Land, who was unable to attend the ceremony. The ceremony, held at the White House, also recognized other prominent figures like Hillary Clinton, Denzel Washington, and Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Hamer, who passed away in 1977, is the 11th Mississippian to receive the prestigious award since 1964.
