Deciding to Organize

About This Movie

So, here we have 'Deciding to Organize', a 1968 documentary that's part of the 'Organizing for Power: The Alinsky Approach' series. It's a fascinating glimpse into a moment when community activism was really taking shape. The film captures a group of citizens from Dayton, Ohio, engaging with Saul Alinsky himself—his thoughts, strategies, the energy in the room is palpable. The pacing is contemplative and quite reflective; it allows you to feel the weight of their discussions. There’s a rawness to it, a kind of unpolished but authentic vibe that makes it distinct. It’s less about polished performances and more about the genuine exchange of ideas. You really get the sense of the grassroots effort and the hope that accompanied it.

This documentary is part of a rare series, and finding it on original formats can be a bit of a hunt. Many collectors appreciate the historical context it provides, especially with the renewed interest in grassroots movements today. It’s not often you come across films that document such a pivotal moment in community organizing, so it certainly piques interest among those who delve into activism-related cinema.