The stars came out to support the Matt Damon and Josh Brolin-produced History Channel special
The People Speak in New York City on November 19. The film, inspired by Howard Zinn’s powerful book
A People’s History of the United States, presents moments in United States history to audiences “not from the mouths of Congress but from those of the people picketing Congress,” as Zinn says. Nearly two-dozen celebrities, including Kerry Washington, Viggo Mortensen, Danny Glover, Q’orianka Kilcher and Lupe Fiasco, read from influential historical documents.
“It was very inspiring and exciting,” said Kilcher. “I know a lot of young people may not want to read through a four-inch book, but they’re going to be able to see it re-enacted through these amazing people.” Rapper Lupe Fiasco also noted the message the film would impart to young people, while also having something for an older crowd. “They wanted to represent different areas to really get people to come out and see the film, and I was the hip hop guy. It actually worked,” said Fiasco. “When we were on the college tour to promote it, kids would come out with “Lupe” signs. And there was a cross with the Danny Glover fans.”
Howard Zinn told
TV Guide Magazine that the performers he chose were those “who are very good actors and who have powerful social consciences” before jetting off for a photo with co-executive producer and co-director Chris Moore (who worked with Damon on "Good Will Hunting" and is currently producing his new film "The Adjustment Bureau.") “Matt’s the best,” Moore said. “He’s very hard working.” Although it was a star-studded affair, the focus always remained on the event. “It’s about bringing a history book to life,” said Darryl McDaniels of Run-D.M.C. “You read about Lincoln, you read about Fredrick Douglass, you read about what Muhammad Ali did. But then you get to hear it, to feel the emotions of why they were saying what they were saying.”