Ryan Coogler explains why he is still filming Black Panther 2 in Georgia
The passage of Georgia’s SB202 Voting Rights Act has sparked much backlash against state lawmakers in recent weeks. In addition to other controversial provisions, the law shortens the deadline for requesting ballots in the absence and imposes new ID requirements. It also makes it a crime to hand out food or water to voters waiting in line.
In response, several Hollywood celebrities are trying to do their part by staging a statewide production boycott. Anyway, a filmmaker who is not participating in this boycott is Ryan Coogler, who is going to work with Black panther 2 in July. In a new essay (via IndieWire), Coogler explained why he’s keeping the sequel in the Peach State this summer.
“The struggle for full suffrage is fundamental to the African-American struggle in this country and to this country’s claim to a functioning democracy,” said Coogler. “As an African American and as a citizen, I am against all attempts, explicit and otherwise, to shrink the electorate and limit access to the ballot paper. I will say this when I return to Georgia, a state that has a special place in my heart. I lived in Atlanta for eight months while filming my last movie [and] I have been looking forward to returning for a long time. But when I was informed about the passage of SB202 in the state and its consequences for the voters in the state, I was deeply disappointed. “
Coogler also discussed how a boycott could harm “local sellers and businesses” who take advantage of it Black panther 2‘s production. According to him, those entrepreneurs are among the people most likely to feel the effects of Georgia’s new laws. That’s why he pledges to support voting rights organizations, and encourages fans to do the same. Coogler specifically endorsed passage of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. He also announced plans to donate to Fair Fight Action. The website of that organization can be found here.
“Our film stays in Georgia,” continued Coogler. “In addition, I have made a personal pledge to raise awareness of ways to help destroy this harmful law, and I will continue to receive education on this issue from people on the ground. I will encourage everyone who works with me to connect with the local community directly affected by Senate Law 202 and use their influence and resources to help fight for this specific and essential pillar of democracy. “
Black panther 2 will hit theaters on July 8, 2022.
What do you think of Coogler’s decision? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended reading: Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet Book 1
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