Celebrating Women’s History Month at Women’s Rights National Historical Park

Date: March 15, 2014
Contact: Kimberly Szewczyk, 315-568-2991

Seneca Falls, NY –Many believe Women's Rights National Historical Park solely commemorates the first women's rights convention held in 1848. But part of the mission of the National Park Service is to educate people about their history and common heritage. Though the 19th-century struggle to gain voting rights for women is one of the most critical and influential social movements in North American history, the relevancy of this event does not begin and end in 1848, nor in the story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton. It lies in this event's legacy to advocate for human rights for all.

In celebration of Women's History Month, and in commemoration of the 150^th anniversary of the Civil War, Women's Rights National Historical Park will be welcoming award-winning filmmaker, scholar, and President of Iguana Films, María Agui Carter for the screening of her documentary, "REBEL" on Friday March 28^th at 6:00 pm and on Saturday, March 29^th at 1:00 pm. This film chronicles the story of Loreta Velazquez, a Cuban immigrant from New Orleans who fought in the Civil War under guise of a man. Her story is one example of our common past and highlights the commonality of women pushing to change societal norms and laws to reach civic and political inclusion.

In support of the American Latino Heritage Initiative, the National Park Service worked with the American Latino Heritage Fund, PBS, and other funders to support the production of María Agui Carter's documentary project, "REBEL". The project includes a feature film; a 15 minute educational film named "Secret Soldier"; and a website (www.rebeldocumentary.com) which hosts additional educational shorts on women soldiers, women's roles in the American Civil War, free streaming of "Secret Soldier" for educators, essays, a media gallery, and more.

Please join us for the screening of "REBEL" and to meet the filmmaker. The festivities begin with a reception on Friday evening at 6:00 pm on March 28^th following by the film screening. On Saturday, March 29^th, the documentary will be shown at 1:00 pm followed by a reception. There will be ample opportunity for conversation with María Agui Carter. Come discover this little known piece of American history.

For more information about Women's Rights National Historical Park and upcoming programs, please visit our website at www.nps.gov/wori or call [phone]. Join us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/womensrightsnps) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/WomensRightsNPS) or, if you would like to receive email announcements about other upcoming events, send park ranger Patrick Stenshorn an email (e-mail us) to subscribe.