Mighty Ira

"Mighty Ira" is a riveting 2020 documentary that shines a spotlight on Ira Glasser's fascinating life and impactful career. The film takes an in-depth look into the life of this civil liberties warrior, focusing on his tireless struggle as the head of the American Civil Liberties Union, noteworthy interactions with prominent figures, and his relentless commitment to promote the importance of free speech and equality.

The documentary intertwines retrospectives and firsthand revelations about Glasser's distinct career path. A Brooklyn native, Glasser's journey began right after the end of Jackie Robinson's debut season, an event that profoundly influenced his worldview and passion for equality. Working as a mathematician, he later found his calling in civil liberties, eventually becoming the executive director of the ACLU.

The film explores Glasser's tenure as the executive director of the ACLU from 1978 to 2001, a period fraught with numerous high-profile legal battles designed to protect free speech and civil liberties, irrespective of popular opinion. It was under his leadership that the ACLU grew into one of the nation's leading advocates for constitutional rights and liberties.

"Mighty Ira" effectively dramatizes Glasser's various interactions with famous figures, including William F. Buckley Jr., a well-known conservative intellectual, and Ben Stern, a Holocaust survivor. The conversations between Glasser and Buckley, in particular, provide fascinating insights into the complexities of freedom of speech issues in American society, serving as a reminder of a time when political discussions were marked with respect and engagement, even amidst stark ideological differences.

An interesting aspect of the film is the way it spotlights Glasser's exceptional ability to navigate the tricky ethic-moral questions the ACLU was forced to grapple with - demonstrating how some of its most contentious cases stemmed from a commitment to the principle of free speech, irrespective of the views being expressed.

One such example is the exploration of the ACLU's defense of a neo-Nazi group's right to march through Skokie, Illinois, a predominantly Jewish suburb, in the late 1970s. Vehemently contested at the time, the case is still considered as one of the most controversial examples of the organization's commitment to constitutional principles.

"Mighty Ira" also emphasizes Glasser's personal life, introducing us to a man characterized by genuine humility, a fierce sense of justice, and a relentless commitment to the ideals of equality. The documentary portrays Glasser as a sympathetic, humanizing figure, providing a window into the heart and mind of a crusader who fought to uphold fundamental freedoms for all.

Furthermore, the film beautifully taps into the themes of present-day free speech and social justice issues, making it especially relevant in the contemporary social-political climate. It highlights the intersection of law, ideology, and politics and emphasizes the necessity to uphold absolute free speech and civil liberties, irrespective of how unpopular or uncomfortable those views may be.

However, the documentary is careful to balance its heavy themes with a compelling narrative and engaging storytelling. Intimate interviews, archival footage, private conversations, and real-life events are expertly woven into a tapestry that depicts the turbulent nature of the fight for civil liberties.

Directed by Nico Perrino, Chris Maltby, and Aaron Reese, "Mighty Ira" is a must-see film that underscores the importance of free speech in a democratic society. Anchored by Glasser's unwavering belief in the power of words and ideas, the film is potent in its exploration of freedom of expression and remains an invaluable addition to the pantheon of social justice documentaries.

In a time when conversations about free speech and civil liberties are more relevant than ever, "Mighty Ira" is a moving and profound exploration of the constitution, moral courage, and the enduring power of civil discourse. It's a tribute to a man who, through it all, remained mighty in his conviction to uphold and protect the fundamental principles of democracy.