The Anderson Monarchs

The Anderson Monarchs is a 2012 documentary film that takes a look at a Philadelphia-based soccer team that is comprised of young girls. The team is unique in many ways, as it is an all-African American squad, and it's named after Anderson, the first woman to successfully conduct litigation before the US Supreme Court, exposing those behind racial segregation.

The film follows the girls as they play soccer and navigate their daily lives in Philadelphia. It also documents the team's trip to a tournament in Alabama, where they get to visit some of the most important sites in the civil rights movement. Throughout the movie, the girls talk about their experiences and what they hope to achieve in life.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Anderson Monarchs is how it shows the girls thriving on the soccer field. While they are still young, they are also incredibly talented athletes who compete fiercely with boys and girls from other teams all over the country. Through their hard work and determination, they are able to build life-long bonds with each other and become role models for young African American girls who want to play soccer.

The documentary also looks at the personal lives of the girls and their families. It explores the challenges they face living in low-income neighborhoods in Philadelphia, where violence and poverty are daily realities. One particularly poignant moment comes when one of the team members talks about how soccer has saved her from the streets and the violence around her. Her dedication to the sport keeps her out of harm's way and gives her a sense of purpose.

Another important theme in The Anderson Monarchs is the legacy of civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. The film takes the girls on a tour of historic civil rights landmarks, including the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, where four young black girls were killed in a bombing in 1963. In one scene, they meet Michelle Obama on the White House lawn, where the First Lady encourages them to continue their education and work hard to achieve their goals.

Overall, The Anderson Monarchs is a powerful and inspiring documentary that sheds light on the experiences of young African American girls in the United States. It shows the importance of athleticism, education, and community in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. The movie is a must-see for anyone interested in soccer, civil rights, or youth empowerment.