In celebration of Women’s History Month, and in commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Women’s Rights National Historical Park will be welcoming award-winning filmmaker, scholar, and President of Iguana Films, María Agui Carter for the screening of her documentary, REBEL, a film about Loreta Velazquez, a secret soldier of the American Civil War, on Friday March 28th at 6:00 pm and Saturday, March 29th at 1:00 pm. The story of Loreta Velazquez, a Cuban immigrant from New Orleans who fought in the Civil War under guise of a man, is one example of our common past and highlights the commonality of women pushing to change societal norms and laws to reach civic and political inclusion.
In support of the American Latino Heritage Initiative, the National Park Service worked with the American Latino Heritage Fund, PBS and other funders, to support the production of María Agui Carter’s REBEL Documentary project which includes a feature film, a 15 minute educational film named Secret Soldier, and the website hosting bonus additional educational shorts on women soldiers, women’s roles in the American Civil War, free streaming of “Secret Soldier” for educators, essays, a media gallery, and more at www.rebeldocumentary.com.
Please join us for a screening of REBEL and to meet the filmmaker. The festivities begin with a reception on Friday evening at 6:00 pm on March 28th following by the film screening. On Saturday, March 29th, the documentary will be shown at 1:00 pm followed by a reception. There will be ample opportunity for conversation with María Agui Carter. Come discover this little known piece of American history.