Brad Bailey and Jered Everson on the Importance of ‘Her Fight, His Name: The Story of Gwen Carr and Eric Garner’
Director Brad Bailey and Producer Jered Everson discuss their documentary Her Fight, His Name: The Story of Gwen Carr and Eric Garne, which offers a deeply personal and emotional portrayal of Gwen Carr, mother of Eric Garner, as she navigates the unthinkable grief of losing her son to police violence. By telling the story through Gwen’s lens, the film provides an intimate and poignant perspective on the far-reaching effects of systemic injustice, humanizing the often impersonal discussions surrounding police brutality.
Read along to learn more about Bailey and Everson’s work!
This documentary focuses on Gwen Carr’s perspective as a mother. Why do you feel it’s important to tell this story from her lens, and how does this unique approach influence the way viewers understand the broader issues of police brutality and systemic injustice?
Telling this story from Gwen Carr’s perspective allows audiences to see the human impact of systemic injustice in an intimate and profoundly personal way. By focusing on her journey, the film reveals the raw emotions of a mother navigating unimaginable grief while finding the strength to demand change. This unique approach shifts the narrative from statistics and headlines to the deeply personal cost. Gwen’s perspective as a mother, her love for her son, and her determination to honor his legacy add a layer of emotional resonance that allows viewers to connect with the broader issues on a deeper level. The film ensures that Gwen’s voice and the voices of countless other families affected by systemic violence are not lost in the noise of political debates.
Jered, the film touches on sensitive and painful topics, particularly around racial injustice and police brutality. As a producer, what steps did you take to ensure the narrative was respectful, honest, and impactful, especially when dealing with such raw emotions?
As a producer, ensuring respect and honesty in the storytelling was a top priority. The team worked in close collaboration with Gwen Carr to ensure that her story was told authentically and with integrity. This meant actively listening to her, understanding her boundaries, and creating an environment where she felt safe sharing her experiences. We sought input from community leaders, activists, and experts to ensure the film accurately represented the broader systemic issues while staying true to Gwen’s voice. Additionally, we approached sensitive topics with care and avoided sensationalism, focusing instead on the dignity of Gwen’s experience and the humanity of her son, Eric Garner. Our goal was to craft a narrative that not only educates but also empowers audiences, while honoring Gwen’s courage and resilience.
In your own words, what makes this film a timely piece of art for today’s audience?
This film is incredibly timely because it comes at a moment when these issues ought to be revisited through a personal lens of motherhood and resilience. In a political climate where progress feels tenuous, Her Fight, His Name, serves as a rallying cry for justice and systemic reform. It reminds viewers that these issues are not relics of the past but ongoing battles that demand attention and action. Gwen’s story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring audiences to see how personal grief can be transformed into a powerful force for change. At a time when many feel powerless in the face of injustice, this film offers a roadmap for hope and action, showing how one person’s fight can create a ripple effect that leads to broader societal change.
How did you collaborate with each other working on this film? What was the creative dynamic like between the two of you, especially given your shared passion for social justice work?
Our collaboration was rooted in mutual respect and a shared passion for storytelling that drives social change. Brad’s vision as a director, coupled with Jered’s experience in social justice advocacy, created a dynamic where creative decisions were guided by a deep commitment to Gwen’s story. We worked closely to ensure every element of the film — whether it was the visuals, the pacing, or the score — reflected the emotional weight of the narrative. The creative process was collaborative, with constant feedback and brainstorming to ensure we stayed true to the heart of the story. This synergy allowed us to balance the personal and societal aspects of the film, creating a narrative that is both deeply moving and socially impactful.
What is your message to the people who may not be familiar with Gwen Carr’s story or Eric Garner’s legacy? Why do you think this story matters, and why should it be heard today?
For those who may not know Gwen Carr’s story or Eric Garner’s legacy, this film serves as a poignant introduction to the human impact of systemic bias and violence. It matters because it puts a face to the issues often discussed in abstract terms, showing the ripple effects of injustice on a family and a community. Gwen’s journey from grief to activism is a testament to the power of resilience and the necessity of fighting for systemic reform. Her story reminds us that the battle for justice is far from over and that every voice matters in the pursuit of change. At a time when these issues remain painfully relevant, this film invites audiences to listen, empathize, and take action to ensure that no other family has to endure the same pain.
What role do you think documentaries like Her Fight, His Name play in shaping public discourse and driving social change? How do you hope the film influences viewers’ understanding of police violence and racial inequality?
Documentaries like Her Fight, His Name play a crucial role in humanizing systemic issues and fostering empathy. They go beyond news headlines and statistics to tell the stories of real people whose lives have been affected by systemic injustices. This film shines a light on the ongoing impact of police violence and racial inequality, creating a space for dialogue and reflection. By sharing Gwen’s story, we hope viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the long-term effects of systemic racism and feel inspired to engage with these issues in their own communities. The film serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging viewers to not only witness Gwen’s fight but to join it in their own way.
This film is vying for Oscar consideration in the Documentary Short category. What do you think makes Her Fight, His Name stand out as an Oscar-worthy film?
Her Fight, His Name stands out because of its emotional authenticity and the urgency of its message. Gwen Carr is a tour de force and it was a privilege to walk beside her in producing this for over six years. The film blends intricate and intimate storytelling with unforced social commentary, creating a narrative that is both intimate and universal, and welcoming to everyone to consider. The 10th anniversary of Eric Garner’s passing adds a poignant timeliness, reminding audiences of the ongoing experience for mothers like Gwen Carr when the news cameras go away. The film’s visual storytelling, emotional depth, and Gwen’s powerful voice make it a unique contender. Its ability to connect deeply with viewers and act as a roadmap for action and hope aligns with the kind of stories that resonate with Oscar voters.
If you both could pick one moment in the film that you believe encapsulates its Oscar potential, what would it be and why?
One moment is the scene where Gwen sits quietly in her home, surrounded by photographs of Eric and other loved ones. This moment captures the film’s emotional core, showing how memory and love fuel her activism. It’s a simple yet profound scene that conveys the depth of her grief and the strength of her resolve. The quiet power of this moment resonates deeply, reminding viewers of the humanity behind the headlines. It’s a scene that lingers with you long after the film ends.
