On Oct. 15, 2025, the Student Government Association of the University of Tennessee at Martin hosted a special screening of the Netflix documentary 13th in the Watkins Auditorium.
Directed by Ava DuVernay, the film delves into the intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration in the United States, tracing how the nation’s prison system has evolved as a continuation of racial inequality. The event was presented by the Student Government Association’s multicultural affairs committee.
Following the screening, students and faculty members had the opportunity to engage in an open discussion about the film’s powerful message and its relevance to current social and political issues. The event presented a meaningful opportunity to highlight how UT Martin students are engaging in critical conversations about systemic injustice and civic awareness.
“The event encouraged students to have challenging conversations. The film, 13th, was filled with powerful information about the racial tensions in our criminal justice system,” said Tamera Harden, the chairman of the multicultural affairs committee. “At times, it can feel discouraging for individuals to discuss topics like this. However, I want to encourage my peers to have difficult conversations, gain insight, and apply their knowledge to dismantle the problems we face in our society today.”
The multicultural affairs committee focuses on sustaining and advocating for diversity as well as inclusivity amongst our campus at UT Martin; this event allowed our students to gather together and do just that. Despite the film being released back in 2016, nine years later it is still emphasizing points that still remain relevant today. Conversations are the key to cultivating real change within our world, and through this event, students at UT Martin were able to make real impacts.
The multicultural affairs committee had the privilege of having Henri Giles lead the after-film discussion.
“Every time I watch 13th it’s like I see something different, but everything is real,” said Giles. Giles, a professor within the department of history and philosophy, has many insights towards the film and just how important it is to discuss the topics of racial inequality, civil rights, government regulations and more.
UT Martin has a very diverse arrangement of students, and the campus offers a lot of opportunities that cater to all interests; this event was no exception.
“I’m incredibly grateful that the Multicultural Affairs Committee had the opportunity to host a screening of 13th,” said Bailey Parker, Student Government Association President, when asked about how excited she was about the success of the event.”Events like this spark critical conversations on campus and help us engage with complex issues through honesty and empathy.”
Parker extended a shoutout to committee chair Tamera Harden for her leadership in making the event happen. “As SGA, we’re proud to support spaces that challenge us to learn, reflect and grow together,” said Parker.
Reflecting on the film screening of 13th, it is clear the scope and impact of the event is a testament to the importance of inclusivity at UT Martin. Through student organizations on campus, countless classes and events just like the film screening, students on campus are equipped with the resources and support to further their knowledge and expand their understanding of equality topics. Students can take the information gained from the documentary and the insightful discussion amongst their peers to go out, educate others and make a difference.
