Independent Lens Season 15 Episode 7 How to Survive a Plague

"How to Survive a Plague" is the seventh episode of season 15 of the award-winning documentary series Independent Lens. The episode tells the story of the AIDS epidemic in the United States during the 1980s and the activists who fought to get the government and medical community to take action against the disease.

The documentary follows the struggles and triumphs of a group of men and women who were living with HIV/AIDS and who formed the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP). The organization was founded in 1987 and quickly became known for its direct action protests, which were designed to draw attention to the plight of those with AIDS and force politicians and medical professionals to take action.

The episode begins with a look at how the AIDS epidemic started and the lack of knowledge and resources available to those who were affected by the disease. The documentary then goes on to show how a group of activists, including playwright Larry Kramer and ACT UP founder Larry Mass, decided to take matters into their own hands and fight for their rights and the rights of others with AIDS.

The documentary features interviews with activists, doctors, and researchers who were involved in the fight against AIDS, as well as archival footage that shows the protests and demonstrations organized by ACT UP. It also explores some of the challenges and setbacks faced by the movement, including the slow response of the government and the medical community, as well as the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with AIDS.

Through interviews and personal stories, the documentary shows how the efforts of ACT UP and other activists helped to change the course of the AIDS epidemic in the United States. They were successful in getting the government to invest more resources into AIDS research and treatment, and they also helped to change public attitudes towards people with AIDS, paving the way for more tolerant and compassionate policies.

"How to Survive a Plague" is a powerful and moving documentary that tells an important story about a critical moment in American history. It shows how ordinary people, faced with a devastating disease and limited resources, came together to fight for their lives and the lives of others. It is a testament to the power of community and the ability of people to make a difference, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles.