Of the 1.3 billion people living in absolute poverty around the globe, 70 percent are women and girls. Women work two-thirds of the world's working hours, yet earn only 10 percent of the income. Women produce half the world's food, yet own only 1 percent of its land. Women make up two-thirds of the estimated 876 million adults worldwide who cannot read or write; and girls make up two-thirds of 77 million children not attending school.
Behind these statistics are real women who are making strides against adversity. I got to spend time with three such women, Hanh, Nada, and Jacqueline, and have the privilege of sharing their stories in the documentary A Powerful Noise. Filming with these women for three months truly changed my life and taught me the real meaning of courage, strength, and perseverance. A Powerful Noise takes a provocative look at three women from different countries who overcome seemingly insurmountable odds to bring great change to their society.
Filmmakers lives are almost always touched by their subjects. Documentaries do a great service in putting a human face on issues that are often overlooked. It is even more rewarding when you can empower others to make a difference with the story you bring to the screen.
What if for one night you could make a difference by going to the movie theater? Now you can by seeing A Powerful Noise this Thursday, March 5. Just by purchasing a ticket, you can help galvanize a movement to eradicate global poverty and begin to reverse centuries of injustice for women everywhere.
In 450 movie theaters nationwide, advocates for empowering women will participate in a live town hall simulcast following the screening of the film. Join Madeleine Albright, Natalie Portman, Nicholas Kristof, Christy Turlington-Burns, and Dr. Helene Gayle of CARE this Thursday, March 5th, for A Powerful NoiseLive, an unprecedented one-night only event.
A Powerful Noise Live begins at 7:30pmET/6:30pmCT/5:30pmMT/8:00pmPT (tape delayed). Click here to find a theater near you and buy tickets now. If our sold-out festival screenings are any indication, you will leave the theater inspired and determined to join forces with these women to make a lasting difference.