The Blinding of Isaac Woodard

This documentary presents the harrowing story of Isaac Woodard, who was brutally attacked by a police chief after returning home from World War II. The incident, which left him permanently blind, garnered national attention and highlighted the deep-seated issues of race and justice in America. It serves as a crucial historical account that contributed to the civil rights movement.

The film is based on Richard Gergel’s book Unexampled Courage and illustrates how Woodard's experience influenced President Harry Truman’s decision to desegregate federal offices and the military. The brutal act not only shocked the nation but also set the stage for the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which outlawed public school segregation. With a runtime of 112 minutes, this documentary is significant for those interested in the intersection of history, law, and social justice.