Ava DuVernay's '14th' Explores Constitutional Amendment

Ava DuVernay's documentary '14th' is a powerful sequel to her previous documentary '13th', exploring the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, its history, and its significance in American democracy. The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, guarantees equal protection under the law and has been used as a legal justification for equality movements in the US.

The documentary features interviews with historians, political leaders, and other experts, including Stacey Abrams and Dr. Eric Foner. DuVernay's film examines the amendment's equal protection clause and its impact on equality movements in the US, providing a nuanced understanding of the amendment's significance.

The 14th Amendment has five intricate sections that deal with issues from insurrection to due process, making it a crucial component of American democracy. The amendment was passed within five years of the conclusion of the Civil War, along with the 13th and 15th Amendments, which collectively formed a 'Constitutional reset' that clarified rights for all Americans, including newly freed slaves.

The documentary is particularly relevant in today's political climate, as Donald Trump has attempted to take an axe to a key provision of the 14th Amendment that guarantees birthright citizenship. This provision, which states that 'All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside', has been a cornerstone of American democracy since the amendment's ratification in 1868.

## Why it matters The 14th Amendment's equal protection clause has been used to justify landmark Supreme Court decisions, including those related to civil rights and social justice. The amendment's significance extends beyond its legal implications, as it represents the ideals and long-term viability of the American experiment. As the US approaches midterm elections, the documentary serves as a timely reminder of the importance of understanding and protecting the Constitution.

The documentary '14th' will be released theatrically on November 27 and on Netflix on December 4, providing a platform for audiences to engage with the amendment's history and significance. With its release, DuVernay's film is poised to spark important conversations about the role of the 14th Amendment in American democracy and its continued relevance in today's society.

## What happens next As the documentary prepares for its release, it is likely to generate significant attention and discussion about the 14th Amendment and its impact on American democracy. With its timely release ahead of the midterm elections, the film may play a role in shaping the national conversation about the importance of protecting the Constitution and its amendments. As audiences engage with the documentary, they will be reminded of the significance of the 14th Amendment and its continued relevance in today's society.