Not Going Quietly Discussion Guide

Film Summary & Using This Guide

In this collection:

The Film: Participants and Key Issues

Background Information

Discussion Prompts

Taking Action & Resources

Credits & Acknowledgements

ACCESS FULL RESOURCE

FILM SUMMARY

A rising star in progressive politics and a new father, Ady Barkan finds his life upended when he is diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Then, after a chance encounter with a powerful senator on an airplane catapults him to fame, Ady and a motley crew of activists ignite a once-in-a-generation movement for universal health care, in a journey that transforms his belief in what is possible for the country and for his family.

USING THIS GUIDE

This guide is an invitation to dialogue. It is based on a belief in the power of human connection and designed for people who want to use Not Going Quietly to engage family, friends, classmates, colleagues, and communities. In contrast to initiatives that foster debates in which participants try to convince others that they are right, this document envisions conversations undertaken in a spirit of openness in which people try to understand one another and expand their thinking by sharing viewpoints and listening actively.

The discussion prompts are intentionally crafted to help a wide range of audiences think more deeply about the issues in the film. Rather than attempting to address them all, choose one or two that best meet your needs and interests. And be sure to leave time to consider taking action. Planning next steps can help people leave the room feeling energized and optimistic, even in instances when conversations have been difficult.

For more detailed event planning and facilitation tips, visit communitynetwork.amdoc.org.

Sources

About the authors

Dr. Charles Robbins

Charles L. Robbins is a professor in the School of Social Welfare, Affiliated Faculty in the Program in Public Health and Executive Director of the Center for Changing Systems of Power at Stony Brook University in New York. Previously he served as the vice provost for undergraduate education and student success at Stony Brook University. Dr. Robbins received his BS degree from the State University of New York at Cortland; an MSW from Adelphi University; and a DSW from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University.

The focus of Dr. Robbins’s scholarship and work is on social justice, gender equality, masculinities, the LGBTQA+ community, and healthcare disparities. He is a frequent speaker at local, national and international conferences. In addition to North America, he has worked in Africa, Australia, South America, Asia, and Europe. Dr. Robbins consults with universities, not-for-profit organizations, and corporations around gender and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Dr. Robbins is a member of the global board of MCW Global, whose mission is to address communities’ pressing needs by empowering current leaders and readying the leaders of tomorrow. His primary focus has been on working with emerging young leaders. Dr. Robbins has been an official NGO delegate to the United Nations.

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