Cathedral to screen acclaimed anti-racism documentary
White Riot explores the Rock Against Racism movement of the 1970s
Salisbury Cathedral is to screen an award-winning documentary exploring the fight back against racism in Britain in the 1970s this evening (12/2).
White Riot, directed by Rubika Shah, looks at the story of Red Saunders as part of the Rock Against Racism movement, which saw bands, including The Clash, become a rallying point for resistance.
It's being shown at the Cathedral as part of the sites "Joyful Noise" theme.
Canon Chancellor, Kenneth Padley, explained why that theme was chosen.
"Joyful noise is a term which comes from the Bible, it comes from a line in the Psalms and it reflects hopefully something of the lifely activity, the vibrancy, and the positivity, which we believe the cathedral is about," he said.
He said the Cathedral regularly uses noise and music in its church context, adding that this screening shows how it can be used for standing up for what is right.
Origins of the documentary
Rubika mentioned that her motivation was to bring to light stories that had been sidelined or underrepresented.
She said: "It's a story that I've known for a long time and I couldn't believe hadn't been made into a feature doc."
"I could say I'm also a bit of an activist filmmaker," she added.
The screening of 'White Riot' at the iconic Cathedral comes following an invitation received by Shah via email.
She remarked on the unique opportunity to see the film in such a grandiose venue.
Themes of the film
Reflecting on the film's thematic elements, Rubika expressed hopes for viewers to consider the power of collective action and grassroots initiatives.
She said, "I'd love for people to sort of watch it with that in mind and also to think at the end that, you know, anything's possible."
The film, created without major network funding, underscores the message that individual voices can gather momentum and lead to significant movements, encouraging viewers to understand the potential for change even from modest beginnings.
For those attending, Rubika anticipates that the setting will amplify the film’s themes of community and inspiration.
"Ordinary people can make a difference"
Kenneth told us that the film shares a message of "ordinary" people affecting societal change through their actions.
But from the Cathedral's perspective, he said it's about showing that people of faith are concerned with the modern world, saying issues like racism are a concern for everyone.
"Christians are not about party politics, but, you know, the world is inherently political and the God of love and the God of justice, is not neutral to some of these issues.
"This film was made in 2019, but looking back to a historical period we believe and we know it is still relevant today."