Hot Docs 2008

"The environment of Third World countries is destroyed with the full knowledge and support of the developed countries, who support dictators, who don't help us overcome these dictators and who do business with these dictators, and then, hold the poor people to account." Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai says it best, whether describing Kenya's recent history or her own. One of the most inspirational orators and activists you'll ever encounter, Maathai's simple act of planting trees inspired Kenya's environmental movement, helped protect the human rights of its people, and the democracy of the entire nation. Maathai is a humble and empowering teacher and activist, radiating warmth and intelligence. She reminds us that even the smallest act of defiance, the quietest voice of dissent, could very well change the world. Taking Root is an incredible look at a woman's reclamation of her cultural roots from the ravages of colonialism.
-Angie Driscoll