Watch Independent America: Rising from Ruins

Independent America: Rising from Ruins is a documentary film that explores the impact of globalization on small businesses in the United States. The film is a sequel to Independent America: The Two-Lane Search for Mom and Pop, which was released in 2005. The film begins in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the Gulf Coast in 2005. The filmmakers, Hanson Hosein and Heather Hughes, visit a variety of small business owners in the region, including a coffee roaster, a toy store, and a bicycle shop. These businesses were all affected by the storm, but they managed to rebuild and reopen with the help of their communities.

From there, the film explores the broader economic forces that threaten small businesses across the country. The filmmakers interview experts on globalization and neoliberalism, who argue that these forces have led to the decline of the middle class and the loss of jobs in manufacturing and other sectors. They argue that small businesses are the key to revitalizing local economies, but they are often crushed by big-box stores and other corporations that can take advantage of economies of scale.

To illustrate this, the filmmakers visit a small town in North Carolina that was once home to a thriving textile industry. The industry has since been outsourced to overseas factories, leaving many workers unemployed. The filmmakers interview a local business owner, who talks about how Walmart came to town and quickly drove out many of the small businesses. She argues that Walmart's low prices are often deceptive, as the company's employees are paid poverty wages and the products are often made overseas.

The film also examines the role of government in supporting small businesses. The filmmakers visit a small town in Vermont, where the local government has implemented a variety of policies to promote local business. These include a "buy local" campaign and zoning laws that encourage mixed-use development. The filmmakers interview several business owners who credit these policies with their success.

In addition, the film explores innovative business models that are emerging in response to these challenges. The filmmakers visit a cooperative grocery store in Philadelphia and a worker-owned bakery in New Orleans. These businesses are run democratically by their employees, who share in the profits and have a say in how the businesses are run.

Throughout the film, the filmmakers highlight stories of resilience and perseverance among small business owners. They show how these entrepreneurs are adapting to changing market conditions and finding creative ways to compete with larger corporations. They also emphasize the importance of community support in helping these businesses survive and thrive.

Overall, Independent America: Rising from Ruins is a thought-provoking and inspiring documentary that offers a nuanced look at the challenges facing small businesses in the United States. The film encourages viewers to consider the impact of their purchasing decisions and to support businesses that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. It also highlights the need for policy interventions that can support small business and promote economic justice.