From: Bridget T.
Subject: RE: Grassroots panel!
Date: Friday, October 21, 2011
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Gyllenhaal,
I wanted to thank you so much for organizing the screening and discussion at Trinity College. First of all, the movie was an absolute hit! The witty humor made the film very approachable, and the topic was poignant, inspirational, and thought provoking. I couldn’t believe my reactions to the movie at first. The whole time I was just sitting there, nodding my head, think, “Yes! He’s got it! This makes sense!” As someone very concerned with the ecological fate of this country and the global community, and the injustices that millions face as a result of environmental exploitation, I have always been a proponent of local economy, agriculture, and production. In addition to the environmental benefits, I believe that fostering a culture that is local brings people together in a way that is absolutely essential in today’s globalized and disconnected (while paradoxically connected, e.g. cell phones, internet, etc.) society. I’ve grappled with the idea of national politics for a while now though and I was often disheartened by my inability to even image creating change in such a corrupt system. It seemed like we would never be able to break through. I don’t know why it didn’t occur to me before I saw Grassroots, but local politics is undoubtedly where it’s at! I can actually feel the promise this movement brings to the downtrodden public afflicted by poor economics, a deteriorating educational system, and incomplete access to healthy food and proper care, and I am excited! I don’t know if I will run for office, but I can ascertain that I will be involved in this movement somehow. Whether it’s managing a campaign or simply canvasing I know that this is something I want to be a part of!
Thanks again for bringing this topic to light and truly giving the American public a chance to have a voice again! I wish you the best of luck in the screening of Grassroots, in spreading the message of locally focused politics, and in your future endeavors!
Sincerely,
Bridget T.
Trinity College
