Abramorama Takes Over ‘American Agitators,’ a Documentary About Fred Ross Sr., Mentor to Dolores Huerta and Advocate for Justice in America
Abramorama Secures Distribution Rights for Documentary on Fred Ross Sr.
Abramorama has acquired the North American theatrical distribution rights to American Agitators, a documentary that delves into the life and legacy of Fred Ross Sr., a prominent community organizer known for mentoring influential activists in American history.
The film, directed by Raymond Telles, is set to premiere at The QUAD Cinema in New York City on May 1, with additional screenings planned across the U.S. and Canada. Narrated by playwright and filmmaker Luis Valdez, the documentary features insights from a range of notable figures influenced by Ross’s work, including Dolores Huerta, Nancy Pelosi, and Fred Ross Jr., who continues his father’s organizing efforts.
“American Agitators showcases how pioneering organizer Fred Ross Sr. dedicated decades to mobilizing communities for civil rights and labor empowerment,” according to a press release. It also profiles current activists carrying on Ross’s mission, addressing issues such as fair wages and systemic inequality.
Karol Martesko-Fenster, CEO/President of Abramorama, stated, “American Agitators is a powerful reminder that the fight for justice and equity is never finished. Raymond Telles has crafted a deeply resonant film that connects the visionary organizing of Fred Ross Sr. to the urgent movements of today. We are proud to bring this story to North American audiences.”
Raymond Telles is known for his earlier work, including the 2015 documentary Pedro E. Guerrero: A Photographer’s Journey, which was part of PBS’s American Masters series.
Telles noted, “Fred Ross Sr. spent his life proving that ordinary people, when organized, can change the world. Making this film was a profound reminder that the work he started—fighting segregation, expanding voting rights, empowering workers—is still being carried on today, in Atlanta, in Oakland, and in communities across the country. I hope audiences leave the theater ready to be agitators themselves.”
American Agitators also highlights the enduring influence of Ross’s grassroots principles on contemporary labor movements, including the ‘Fight for $15’ initiative in Atlanta and recent efforts in Oakland to secure fair contracts in education.
The film is presented by Abramorama and The Fred Ross Project, directed and produced by Ray Telles, with contributions from producers Olivia Heffernan and David Telles. The executive producers include John Heffernan and Margo Feinberg, accompanied by a skilled crew in cinematography, editing, and music composition.
