On August 19, the LEAP Center had a strong presence at the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum for a screening of photographer—and now filmmaker—Mark Burns’ The PVIL Story: Separate… But Equal?
Burns, best known for his acclaimed photography, makes his filmmaking debut with a documentary examining the Prairie View Interscholastic League (PVIL), which provided athletic competition for Black Texas high schools during segregation. Operating from 1920-1970, the PVIL produced remarkable athletes while serving as an important source of community pride. The film, however, goes well beyond athletics, placing the PVIL within the larger history of segregation, integration, and the Civil Rights Movement.
The evening began with a reception before attendees moved into the theater for the film. Following the screening, former Houston Chronicle sportswriter John McClain moderated a panel featuring Burns; Michael Hurd, author of Thursday Night Lights; narrator Fred McClure; producer Rob Lynch; and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Joe Holley, who wrote the documentary. The discussion offered additional insight into the research and work involved in recovering a history for which archival materials were sometimes difficult to find.
Also attending were individuals featured in the documentary, including Mark Updegrove and Ramon Gonzales, adding another personal connection to the evening.
For LEAP, however, the screening had special significance. LEAP Ambassadors have known Burns for years, having opportunities to assist him during portions of his National Parks photography project. During those experiences, Burns was generous with his time, sharing his expertise and serving as both a mentor and friend to the organization.
Seeing Burns move from still photography to filmmaking—and use a new medium to preserve an often-overlooked piece of Texas history—made the evening particularly rewarding. The PVIL Story ties into Texas history, US history, delves into America’s favorite sport, and also tackles questions of constitutional law–a perfect combination of LEAP elements.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 