#standwithme takes a unique approach to making a documentary move people to action. The filmmakers follow one year in a 9 year old’s life of activism for abolishing child slavery.
Vivienne came face to face with the worldwide problem of child slavery when her family stumbled upon a humanitarian photographer’s exhibit featuring photos she had taken of two brothers carrying rocks. They were child slaves forced to carry these sheets of rocks half the size of their bodies from the top of the mountain to the bottom.
Wanting to find answers to this problem Vivienne began selling lemonade at the cost of “pay what’s in your heart” to raise money in the fight against child slavery. The film weaves Vivienne’s story with the key players along the way.
This documentary is a film for all ages. A tool to educate children and adults about child slavery and motivate people to take action, the story is woven together with multiple perspectives and vivid cinematography. Each person in the film is important to the success of the lemonade stand. #standwithme highlighted some of the key aspects of child slavery juxtaposed with the child-like excitement that Vivienne had in her life.
This lighthearted documentary is filled with hope – the hope that a big dream from a small child can turn into a philanthropic business. #standwithme shows child slavery through the eyes of 9 year old Vivienne. The film illustrates her innocence before she encounters child slavery, her simplicity when she begins to make and sell lemonade, and her child-like faith that she can change the world through her stand.
As VISTAs we are working in the fight against poverty, but sometimes when I am updating a Facebook status or tweeting I wonder how it contributes to the battle against poverty. I am then reminded of the power of activism, education and conversation started by Vivienne. Entering into my 5th month of serving with Americorps I hold onto the hope that Vivienne had when she sold her first cup of lemonade, knowing that the action may be small but the change can be great.
Ashley Lai is an Outreach Coordinator and AmeriCorps VISTA at CHILDREN AT RISK. AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Authorized in 1964 and founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965, VISTA was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993. VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for 45 years.