Amy Goodman: A Persistent Voice in Independent Journalism

Amy Goodman, a distinguished independent journalist, crosses Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. She heads to a screening of Steal This Story, Please!, a documentary detailing her impactful career. For over three decades, Goodman has brought stories from around the globe. She co-created and co-hosts Democracy Now!, accessible online and on various public and community broadcast platforms.

The documentary, independently distributed, highlights Goodman’s relentless pursuit of truth. An opening scene captures her chasing Wells Griffith, a climate adviser to Donald Trump in 2018, during the United Nations Climate Summit. Her question, “Can you tell us what you think about President Trump saying that climate change is a hoax?” demonstrates her persistent inquiry. Goodman’s style involves actively pursuing subjects, even when faced with obstacles.

The film displays Goodman’s interactions with influential figures and ordinary people during social and political unrest. She attributes her questioning approach to her Jewish education. The documentary covers significant moments, such as her reports from Ground Zero after 9/11, Haiti, a death row prison in Georgia, and interviews inside Gaza Strip. Her fearless journalism has inspired many, including actress Jane Fonda, who became an executive producer due to her admiration for Goodman’s work.

Fonda regards Democracy Now! as crucial alternative media. She praises Goodman’s dedication to independent journalism, noting that it demands courage and stamina. The film is co-directed by Tia Lessin and Carl Deal, who have a history of collaboration with filmmaker Michael Moore. Goodman’s extensive archival footage spans multiple decades, capturing pivotal moments such as her confrontation with soldiers in Nigeria and her reporting on Native American protests in North Dakota.

One of Goodman’s significant reports involves witnessing an East Timor massacre by Indonesian troops in 1991 alongside reporter Allan Nairn. Their coverage brought international attention. Despite criticisms labeling her as a left-wing activist, supporters commend Goodman’s refusal to accept government, corporate funding, or advertisements for her show.

Radio producer Dave Isay, of NPR’s StoryCorps fame, acknowledges Goodman’s unique contribution to journalism. Although differing politically, Isay respects her moral conviction and willingness to take risks. Goodman has influenced many, including Isay, encouraging him to pursue journalism over medical school.

At Democracy Now! in Manhattan, Goodman discusses the importance of original thinkers addressing global issues with solutions beyond corporate media perspectives. Her reporting has consistently focused on global political and social movements. She believes that those concerned with issues like racial justice, climate change, and anti-immigrant policies are not marginal voices but significant collective forces.

Agreeing to a documentary about her life was challenging for Goodman, who values privacy, yet she recognizes the necessity of promoting independent media. She’s actively touring with the film, with proceeds going to community media outlets. Goodman’s global journey includes her affectionate companion, Zazu, her Shih Tzu-Bichon mix, whom she affectionately refers to as her “newshound.”

Goodman offers insights beyond journalism, suggesting a visit to a historical site once home to artists and musicians. As she departs to continue her journey, it’s clear Goodman not only embodies journalism but also shares intriguing local history.