The Film
The Long Shadow follows former CNN Senior Producer, TED contributor, and Emmy-Award winning Director Frances Causey as she traces her family’s legacy of white privilege, placing it in the context of the history of anti-black racism in the United States that began with slavery and continues to impact our society today.
Frances Causey and Producer Sally Holst passionately seek the hidden truth and the untold stories of how America—guided by the South’s powerful political influence—steadily, deliberately and at times secretly, established white privilege in our institutions, laws, culture and economy.
The Long Shadow has reached more than 80% of the country through our National PBS Broadcasts. Today, the film is being rebroadcast on PBS and shared across the country with community groups, educational institutions, faith-based groups, and organizations committed to education, equity, justice, and change.
Frances Causey’s personal journey in exposing her own family’s history of slaveholding and how the institution of slavery continues to have an impact today is both brave and incredible… a must see, over and over again!
Yolanda Smith, Executive Director, NAACP Houston
Take Action
Take critical action now. Watch and share the NEW 15-minute version of The Long Shadow.
This short version of the film is designed to increase access to learning about the continued impact of white supremacy and to guide community members in acknowledging and undoing the harm done by systematic racism.
- Host a watch party by sharing the film with friends and family
- Download our free Community Action Guide
- Join a live Zoom Q&A with Director Frances Causey
“Phenomenal… Every church ought to see this film.”
Rory Smith, Anti-Racism Commission of the Episcopal Archdiocese of Chicago
Host an Online Screening
Universities, congregations, community groups, nonprofits, and equity-driven organizations across the country are sharing The Long Shadow with their members and staff.
Host an online virtual screening of the film including a live Zoom Q&A with Director Frances Causey
- Streaming access to the PBS film on-demand for a 7-day window
- Live Zoom Q&A with Director Frances Causey and optional moderator
- Customized, branded screening link including your name, logo, and personal message to viewers
- Optional welcome message video from your leadership team or community
- Personal guidance as needed with marketing and promotion
If you are white, Frances’ story is YOUR story.
Kathleen Dreier, Professional Photographer
Message from the Filmmakers
We are absolutely heartbroken for the African-American community that has been so disproportionately devastated by COVID-19 and now they must grieve the senseless, tragic death of Mr. George Floyd and so many others. Our support is behind the protesters all across the country who are making their voices heard in honor of those who have been lost.
The Long Shadow provides much needed and critical background information about the institutional racist oppression and violence against African-Americans that has been perpetuated for more than 400 years.
We hope the film can be a catalyst for action and for white people to demand change now!
With Love For All,
Frances Causey, Director
Sally Holst, Producer
In the press
