Amy Goodman: A Journey in Independent Journalism

Amy Goodman, the respected independent journalist, was recently seen crossing Seventh Avenue in Manhattan to attend a screening of a documentary about her life titled Steal This Story, Please!. The film, circulating independently, documents her unparalleled career in independent journalism.

For over three decades, Goodman has reported worldwide. She co-created and co-hosts Democracy Now!, a show aired online and on public and community TV and radio stations. The documentary’s last theatrical screenings have been sold out before its transition to streaming platforms.

The opening scene of the film captures Goodman pursuing Donald Trump’s then-climate adviser Wells Griffith at the 2018 United Nations Climate Summit. Her relentless questioning, which often leads her to chase down figures of power, is vividly depicted. She persistently asks Griffith about Trump calling climate change a hoax and refuses to back down even as he attempts to evade her.

Steal This Story, Please! highlights Goodman’s continuous engagement with influential figures and grassroots activists during social and political controversies. Goodman attributes her inquisitive nature to her Jewish upbringing. The film includes clips of her from Ground Zero post-9/11, Haiti, a death row prison in Georgia, and interviews from the Gaza Strip.

Actress and activist Jane Fonda praises Goodman for her fearless approach, expressing awe after viewing the documentary. Fonda is now an executive producer for this film, emphasizing how Democracy Now! serves as crucial alternative media.

Filmmakers Tia Lessin and Carl Deal, known for collaborations with Michael Moore, created this documentary. They began working on it during the period when the press was publicly vilified as enemies of the people, spurring them to showcase the investigative journalist’s journey amidst criticism and obstacles.

The filmmakers journeyed with Goodman, capturing her relentless pursuit of stories, and at one point considered naming the documentary Chasing Amy, but opted for the film’s current title as a nod to Abbie Hoffman’s Steal This Book, reflecting the program Democracy Now’s mission.

The documentary covers 30 years of archival material from Democracy Now!, featuring Goodman in confrontations with powerful entities, such as Nigerian soldiers, Native American pipeline protesters, and Indonesian troop massacres in East Timor.

Despite criticism as a left-wing activist, Goodman’s work remains steadfast as she refuses government funding, corporate sponsorship, or advertising revenue for her show. Radio producer Dave Isay describes her as indispensable to journalism, showcasing her conviction and principled stand.

Goodman has guided many journalists, including Isay. They first connected at Pacifica radio in the late ’80s, where she played a pivotal role in Isay’s career decision to shift from medicine to radio, based on Goodman’s encouragement.

At the Democracy Now! studio, Goodman discusses her distinctive journalistic approach, highlighting the importance of amplifying diverse voices and perspectives that corporate media often overlook.

Goodman’s work over the years emphasizes social and political issues globally. She believes those advocating for critical causes like war and peace, racial and economic justice, LGBTQ rights, and climate change are part of a vigorous movement, noticeably absent from mainstream media’s agenda.

Taking part in a documentary was a novel experience for Goodman, one she initially found uncomfortable. However, her dedication to advancing independent media motivated her participation in the film.

As Goodman continues traveling for film festivals and community events, she ensures proceeds support local media outlets. Her loyal Shih Tzu–Bichon, Zazu, accompanies her everywhere, humorously labeled her “newshound” and “puparazzi.”

During their hurry through Manhattan, Goodman shares her fondness for historic spots like the Chelsea Hotel, known for its artistic residents. She offers anecdotes, blending her journalistic insight with cultural notes, reflecting her vibrant personality as both a journalist and informal guide.