Award-Winning ‘The Movement of Champions’ to Premiere at Historic Bama Theater

Step into Tuscaloosa’s civil rights history through The Movement of Champions, an award-winning short documentary that brings to life the stories of students, faith leaders, business owners, and community members who stood up against segregation.

The premiere showing of The Movement of Champions will be Thursday, October 15 at 6 p.m. at the Historic Bama Theater located at 600 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401.

Tickets are on sale now for general admission and a VIP experience. Visit the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights Foundation Website for ticket information and donations https://civilrightstuscaloosa.org/

Hear firsthand from civil rights foot soldiers and members of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights History & Reconciliation Foundation as they share the people, struggles, and courage that helped shape the community.

Get our free mobile app

Directed by Samyra Snoddy, a distinguished member of the Tuscaloosa Civil Rights History and Reconciliation Committee, whose work helps preserve and amplify the stories of those who shaped Tuscaloosa’s civil rights history.

The Movement of Champions has earned major recognition, taking home three top honors from the Southern Shorts Awards for the Summer of 2026: Best Documentary, Best Screenplay, and Best Music. The film also earned eight additional awards: six Awards of Excellence, one Award of Distinction, and one Award of Merit.

“The documentary tells the powerful, often overlooked story of the people who shaped the Civil Rights Movement in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Guided by lifelong residents, the documentary redefines Tuscaloosa as a true “City of Champions,” honoring students, clergy, business leaders, and ordinary citizens whose courage challenged segregation and advanced justice,” said the press release.

“The film examines pivotal moments such as Bloody Tuesday and the desegregation of public schools. By connecting these events to continuing struggles for equality, The Movement of Champions celebrates unsung heroes whose determination transformed their community and inspires generations today. Produced in part through an Alabama Humanities Alliance grant.”