Independent Lens Season 8 Episode 6 Two Square Miles

In this episode of Independent Lens season 8, Two Square Miles, we are taken on a journey to the small town of Ocean Hill in New Jersey. Two Square Miles tells the story of a community fighting to overcome the effects of segregation and inequality. This 90-minute episode documents the struggles and triumphs of the residents of Ocean Hill as they work to create a better future for themselves and their children.

The film opens with footage of Ocean Hill from the 1950s and 1960s. At that time, the town was a thriving African American community that was thriving despite facing systemic racism and inequality. The residents of Ocean Hill were proud of their community, and they worked hard to keep it strong and prosperous. However, in the late 1960s, the town was hit hard by the effects of segregation and inequality. The area was marked as a "poverty zone" and the government located a toxic waste site there, which had damaging effects on the town and its residents.

Despite these challenges, the residents of Ocean Hill refused to give up on their community. They banded together to fight for their rights and demand the government take action to address the environmental harm. They formed the Ocean Hill Citizens Group, a grassroots organization that worked tirelessly to improve the lives of residents. The group’s work proved instrumental in bringing attention to the plight of Ocean Hill, eventually earning them a seat at the table with legislators and moving forward on their goals.

The episode takes us through the struggles of the people of Ocean Hill, as they worked to address their concerns and how they fought for change. We watch as they organize events and rally to bring attention to their cause. We see how they started small, with community meetings and actions aimed at demanding accountability from those in power. We also learn how Ocean Hill residents have fought to re-engrave their community’s history and recognize the contributions made by African Americans to the founding of their community.

The episode is a triumph of storytelling and moving account of perseverance and resilience. The film is well-produced, with a keen eye for detail and the subtle nuances of human relationships. It is clear that the story of Ocean Hill is one that is deeply personal and heartfelt to everyone involved and the filmmakers successfully convey that passion to their audience. Through their use of music, striking visuals, and interviews with local figures, the filmmakers capture the essence of what makes Ocean Hill so unique and special.

In conclusion, Two Square Miles is a moving account of the power of community and the perseverance of the human spirit. It is a testament to what can be accomplished when people work together to achieve their goals. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice and environmental issues, as well as those interested in the power of collective action. Two Square Miles is a beautiful, thought-provoking, and inspiring film that deserves to be seen widely.