Lynching in America Director Focuses on Acknowledging and Addressing our History

Posted By C. M. Rubin on Aug 1, 2021

By Jovan Brooks

Just over 100 years ago, on October 21st, 1916, a prosperous African-American entrepreneur and farmer named Anthony Crawford was shot 200 times and lynched for three days upon refusing to sell cotton seed for an unfair price to a white buyer. Crawford was one of the richest black men in Abbeville, South Carolina, and was horrifically murdered for taking a stand. 

Directed by Juan Mejia Botero, Lynching in America is a short film featuring Crawford’s grandaughter, Doria Johnson, and the Abbeville community as they both recount the heinous act and honor Crawford’s memory. 

Johnson states that the Crawfords have maintained a feeling of obligation to pass down the story of Anthony Crawford and to speak up for him. We also learn during the ceremony that white mobs have lynched over 4,000 black people in the south between 1877 and 1950, with more than 180 being murdered in South Carolina. 

The members of the community utilize vessels of soil for holy consecration in an effort to reject such heinous acts from ever happening again, and mark the ground as holy. As Crawford’s story is retold, numerous members of the community across various ages are intricately invested and grow increasingly emotional as they voice their unity for an honorable future. Placed directly outside the city hall is Crawford’s new placard detailing his story. 

Overall, Lynching in America is a powerful and important retelling of the disgraceful murder of a proud African-American business and community man, Anthony Crawford. The pacing, tone, and visuals are superb, paired with music which helps evoke emotion. I would rate the film 4.5/5. 

Don’t Miss Lynching in America now screening on Planet Classroom.

Jovan Brooks is a senior at Towson University majoring in film production with a minor in acting. Interning in Scripted Series Development, he is a member of the Emmys Television Academy Foundation class of 2021. A diversely skilled writer, actor, and editor, Jovan aspires to ultimately tell meaningful stories in television and film.