Amy Goodman’s Unyielding Pursuit of Truth

Amy Goodman crosses Seventh Avenue in Manhattan heading to a screening of Steal This Story, Please!, a documentary detailing her life in independent journalism. For more than 30 years, Goodman has traveled the globe as an independent reporter. She co-created and co-hosts Democracy Now!, a show broadcasted online, on public, and community stations. Her unyielding pursuit to cover the truth is the focus of a documentary selling out its final theatrical screenings before moving to streaming in the fall.

The documentary captures Goodman’s relentless nature, evident from the opening scene as she questions Donald Trump’s climate adviser, Wells Griffith, during the 2018 United Nations Climate Summit. Despite receiving no answers, Goodman persistently asks if he plans to avoid the press, chasing him through corridors until he finds refuge behind a locked door.

“Can you tell us what you think about President Trump saying that climate change is a hoax?” she asks. “Are you not talking to the press while you’re here?”

Goodman’s questioning extends beyond politicians, as she speaks to individuals during times of unrest. Her Jewish background instilled the value of asking questions. Whether reporting from Ground Zero post-9/11, interviewing journalists from the Gaza Strip, or documenting Haitian struggles, Goodman’s fearless nature is displayed. Actress Jane Fonda, moved by the documentary, became an executive producer. Fonda has relaunched her father’s Committee for the First Amendment and champions Democracy Now! as a vital media alternative.

“I bow before Amy Goodman,” says Fonda. “She has been crucial to American democracy, demonstrating independent journalism’s courage and essential role.”

The documentary directed by Tia Lessin and Carl Deal, known collaborators with Michael Moore, highlights Goodman’s tenacity. Formerly subjects of her interviews, Lessin and Deal document Goodman’s career and fearless pursuits. The film’s title, inspired by Abbie Hoffman’s Steal This Book, reflects an invitation to other media to cover substantial stories.

Goodman’s archives span three decades, showcasing her persistence against opposition. The film includes notable footage such as her facing soldiers in Nigeria and reporting at protests in North Dakota. Goodman’s account of being severely beaten by Indonesian troops during a massacre in East Timor in 1991 exemplifies her dedication. Her reporting stirred global outrage and propelled her journalistic career.

Critics label her a left-wing activist, yet her journalism refrains from government funding and corporate sponsorship. Radio producer Dave Isay, familiar to NPR audiences, acknowledges Goodman’s strong moral compass and tenacious spirit. He credits his career shift from medicine to journalism to Goodman’s encouragement.

“You don’t mess with Amy Goodman,” Isay asserts.

Meeting Goodman at the Democracy Now! studio, she’s reminiscent of teaching old-school editing techniques. Goodman values independent media’s role amidst consolidated corporate media. Her work spans political and social movements globally, championing voices of those advocating for justice and climate action.

Despite being private, Goodman agreed to the film for independent media’s importance. Films proceeds are donated to local community stations, emphasizing her commitment to grassroots journalism.

Her enduring presence is apparent, with proceeds supporting local stations—a testament to her dedication leading grassroots journalism forward.