Film Screening Spurs Reflection on Resistance and Justice
New York, NY – On July 14, 1970, 50 predominantly Puerto Rican community activists known as the Young Lords entered Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx. They barricaded themselves inside to protest the poor health care conditions and demand better for their community. NYU Silver’s Evolve Justice Lab and DSW Program, both led by Clinical Associate Professor Kirk ‘Jae’ James, recently hosted a screening and discussion of Takeover!—a documentary that captures the 12-hour occupation.
Moderated by Adjunct Assistant Professor Terrence Coffie, the event brought together students, activists, and scholars to reflect on the legacy of radical organizing for health care justice. “We were honored to be joined by Mr. Five Mualimm-ak, filmmaker and founder of Incarcerated Nation Network, Inc., alongside legendary former members of the Black Panther Party and Young Lords, Bill Johnson (BJ) and Carlito Rivera,” said Mr. Coffie. “Their presence provided a rare and invaluable opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of struggle, resilience, and the power of collective action.”
The film documents how the occupying Young Lords turned the crumbling institution into what they called “The People’s Hospital” and advocated for demands including preventative care, a new hospital building, and an oversight board composed of workers and community members. Mr. Coffie observed “They forced the world to witness the neglect faced by Black and Brown communities and demanded justice in the form of accessible, quality care.”
Following the screening, a panel discussion and Q&A with students explored the continued relevance of these fights today. They addressed questions such as how do we build upon the legacy of the Young Lords? What lessons can we apply in our struggles for justice and equity today?
“The Young Lords showed us that change is possible when communities organize, resist, and demand better,” said Mr. Coffie. “Their fight is not over.”
About NYU Silver School of Social Work
Founded in 1960 and renowned for a strong tradition of excellence in direct social work practice and dedication to social justice, NYU Silver has provided rigorous training to more than 20,000 social work practitioners and leaders in every area of the field, making it the leading destination for students who want to become innovative practitioners at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of social work practice. The School has four campuses in the heart of New York City, Rockland County, Westchester County, and Shanghai.