Left Behind - The Fight for Literacy & Justice

Face2Face with David Peck

In this episode join David Peck, host of Face2Face, as he chats with filmmakers Anna Toomey and Sian Edwards Beale about their powerful documentary Left Behind, which sheds light on the struggles of children with dyslexia and the fight for literacy education reform. They explore the emotional impact of storytelling, the challenges of filmmaking, and why access to education is a civil rights issue. Join us for an insightful conversation on activism, community-driven filmmaking, and the transformative power of stories.

Synopsis:

Left Behind is a powerful documentary by filmmaker Anna Toomey that exposes the struggles faced by children with dyslexia and the systemic failures in literacy education. Through deeply personal stories, the film highlights the emotional and academic challenges these children endure, while also showcasing the tireless efforts of activists, educators, and parents fighting for change. Blending compelling narratives with critical insights, Left Behind reveals how education inequity disproportionately impacts students with learning differences and underscores why access to literacy is a fundamental civil rights issue. Co-Produced by and with original music from Larry Mullen Jr. from U2 this thought-provoking film is a call to action, urging communities to advocate for inclusive education and systemic reform.

Bios:

Anna Toomey and Sian Edwards Beale are award-winning documentary filmmakers dedicated to shedding light on pressing social justice issues through the power of storytelling. As the creative forces behind Left Behind, their documentary exploring the struggles of children with dyslexia and the fight for literacy education reform, they have crafted a deeply personal and politically charged film that challenges systemic inequities in education.

Anna Toomey is a filmmaker and advocate with a passion for character-driven narratives that highlight underrepresented voices. With a background in documentary production and a commitment to grassroots activism, she brings a nuanced, empathetic approach to storytelling that resonates with audiences and drives meaningful change.

Sian Edwards Beale is a director, producer, and cinematographer whose work focuses on the intersection of storytelling and social impact. With a keen eye for visual storytelling and an emphasis on community collaboration, he believes in the power of film to inspire action and foster dialogue around critical societal issues. Together, Toomey and Edwards Beale champion inclusive and accessible education through their work, using film as a tool for advocacy and awareness. Their collaborative approach highlights the importance of community engagement, ensuring that the stories they tell not only inform but also empower audiences to take action.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

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