Amy Goodman walks across Seventh Avenue in Manhattan, heading to a screening of Steal This Story, Please!, a documentary capturing her impactful career in independent journalism. Known for co-creating and co-hosting Democracy Now!, her work spans global reporting over 30 years, shared online and on public and community TV and radio stations.
The documentary, set to move to streaming in the fall, portrays Goodman’s persistent quest for truth. Opening scenes show her pursuing Wells Griffith, Donald Trump’s climate adviser, at the 2018 United Nations Climate Summit. Her unyielding questions highlight her fearless nature.
Goodman’s roots in questioning authority trace back to her Jewish education. Clips show her reporting from Ground Zero post-9/11, from Haiti, Georgia’s death row, and interviewing in the Gaza Strip. Actress Jane Fonda praises her as relentless, underscoring the importance of Democracy Now! as an alternative media source. Fonda, impressed by the film, joined as an executive producer.
Tia Lessin and Carl Deal directed the film, portraying Goodman’s unwavering journalism amidst criticism and arrests. They bring to light the challenges independent journalists face. Their documentary reflects on Goodman’s confrontations with power, highlighting raw moments from Democracy Now!‘s archives, such as soldiers in Nigeria and pipeline protests in North Dakota.
The film’s title mocks Abbie Hoffman’s Steal This Book, emphasizing Democracy Now!‘s mission—challenging other media to cover similar stories. Notable is Goodman’s recounting of a 1991 massacre in East Timor by Indonesian troops. Her on-the-ground reporting, alongside Allan Nairn, catalyzed international outrage and propelled her career forward.
Despite being labeled a left-wing activist, supporters praise Goodman’s refusal of government and corporate funding, ensuring the show’s independence. Radio producer Dave Isay, creator of StoryCorps, highlights her influence and moral compass, acknowledging her role in shaping his career.
Goodman’s commitment to independent journalism shines through, despite initial hesitation to be the film’s subject. For decades, her work focused on political and social movements worldwide. She believes those advocating for justice and climate action are more than a silent majority; they actively organize, often overlooked by mainstream media.
Her story reflects personal sacrifice; filming was challenging, yet Goodman saw it as crucial for promoting independent media. As she continues screening the documentary, proceeds support community radio and TV stations. Her passion extends to everyday moments, urging us to explore cultural landmarks, and introducing her journalist dog, Zazu, as her “newshound.”