Join us for inspiring stories of our community!

Now in its 16th year presented by Docs In Progress, the Community Stories Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing local stories by local filmmakers.

A celebration of independent documentary filmmaking, Community Stories unites filmmakers, cinephiles, and community members for three days of screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and conversations.

CLOSING FILM

Public Defender - dir. Andrea Kalin [51:00 Min.]

Justice isn't easy. Empathy is even harder. For over 45 years, Heather Shaner has fought for justice, defending those who can't afford a lawyer and earning the trust of countless clients. But when she's assigned to represent January 6th rioters, her unwavering empathy and commitment to second chances face the ultimate test. As the country grapples with that day's lasting impact, Heather works to bridge deep political divides one client at a time.

Join us for a post-screening Q&A!

BOOK DRIVE - Please bring your gently used paperback books to our screening to participate in a national book drive in partnership with with Free Minds and DC Books to Prison.

LOCATION: AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910

PARKING: Both the Wayne Avenue Garage and the Town Square Garage have FREE parking all day on Sundays.

Get your tickets here!