Voting should be a very easy process, but voter suppression is an ongoing issue in the United States, from incredibly strict voter ID laws and voter registration restrictions, to problematic poll taxes.

The documentary CAPTURING THE FLAG follows four friends who travel to Cumberland County, NC, a county known for its repressive voter suppression. They have one intent: to prove that the big idea of American democracy can be defended by small acts of individual citizens.

In 2013, in Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court invalidated the part of the 1965 Voting Rights Act requiring certain states to submit changes in voting laws to the Justice Department for approval. Almost immediately, certain states accelerate voter suppression measures such as enacting voter ID laws, redrawing district boundaries, inappropriately purging registered voters from the rolls, and repealing same-day registration.

Three months before the 2016 election, a group of volunteers across the country mobilizes to work on voter protection— to observe elections and to assure that all those who wish to vote are legally allowed to do so. Laverne Berry, Steven Miller, and Claire Wright head to North Carolina. What they find at the polls serves as both a warning and a call to action for anyone interested in protecting the "One Man, One Vote" fundamental of our democracy.

Bullfrog's CAPTURING THE FLAG is vital viewing before the 2020 election. Voter turnout for this upcoming election is extremely important. Being prepared to address potential roadblocks that could prevent someone from voting is essential. The documentary is available for screenings, both in person and through our virtual screening platform, Bullfrog Communities Streaming. The film is also available on DVD for education and home use.

For more helpful resources on voting, check out the film’s resources page.

CAPTURING THE FLAG
Four friends travel to Cumberland County, NC — posterchild for voter suppression in 2016 — intent on proving that the big idea of American democracy can be defended by small acts of individual citizens.
"A film every young adult needs to see. At a time when people across the nation are wondering how they can make a difference, this film says, yes, you can - here are some steps you can take."
Carly Mirabile and Melanie Hogue, Duke Arts, Duke University
"Shows personal stories on how voter suppression can affect anyone of any age, race/ethnicity, or gender. There is no way you can't see a family member or friend in the experiences of the voters highlighted... The future of our democracy is dependent on us fighting all forms of voter suppression and making sure that every person gets to cast a ballot."
Alyssa Canty, Campus Outreach Coordinator, Common Cause North Carolina

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