The release of “Families Embracing Anti-Bias Values,” a 50-minute documentary exploring themes of empathy, identity, inclusion and belonging, couldn’t come at a more fitting moment. As diversity and social justice increasingly shape family discussions, this film—a collaborative effort from producers John Nimmo, Portland State University professor emeritus, early childhood consultant Debbie LeeKeenan and director Filiz Efe McKinney of Brave Sprout Productions—offers a powerful glimpse into how families are raising their children with an anti-bias lens.
By foregoing narration and letting families speak in their own voices, the filmmakers created what Nimmo describes as a “grassroots feel.” “We really wanted to raise up the diversity of parent voices,” he says, adding that the film aims to spark dialogue rather than provide solutions. “It’s not meant to be an answer, but action is the goal.”
The film captures families with rich, diverse intersecting identities—mixed-race and multicultural, multi-faith, LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC and those with disabilities—wrestling with questions like “What if my kid doesn’t look like me?” and balancing safety with childhood freedom.
Following the success of their 2021 award-winning film “Reflecting on Anti-Bias Education in Action: The Early Years,” which explores these issues from the teachers’ perspective, the team wanted to expand the conversation by focusing on families. This new film offers a counter-narrative to the notion that families shy away from tough conversations about oppression and bias. “We wanted to call BS with this film,” says Nimmo, highlighting studies that show families’ commitment to equity. “Families are willing to engage in uncomfortable discussions,” he says, even as issues like book bans and restrictive policies add pressure.
Behind the scenes during a filmed interview with a family at their home in Seattle. Photo courtesy of John Nimmo.
Filmed in Seattle, the project shows parents' dedication reaching beyond school to their family, cultural community and neighborhood. “Parents are more emotionally engaged than teachers, and the complexity of that commitment is often underappreciated,” says Nimmo.
The film has already resonated at screenings across the country, including at the NAEYC Annual Conference in Anaheim. A national virtual screening hosted by EmbraceRace is set for Jan. 14, 2025. At a Portland screening, Shanté Stuart McQueen, assistant professor at PSU and parent of two young Black children, expressed her gratitude: “We’re trying our best to build up our kids, help them know who they are and make sure they’re not oppressing others, all while respecting their teachers.”
Families Embracing Anti-Bias Values co-producer John Nimmo. Photo courtesy of John Nimmo.
As a resource for current and future educators, the film strongly aligns with the mission of PSU’s College of Education to prepare educators who actively support families in anti-bias work. “This film captures the commitment we foster in our early childhood programs—an approach to teaching that prioritizes a dedication to empathy and equity in schools and communities,” Dean Maneka Brooks notes.
Will Parnell, PSU professor and early childhood education advocate, commended the film’s fresh approach: “They’ve woven in an incredibly layered way of thinking about the parent. I think teachers and schools can benefit from watching these videos with families.”
Reflecting on the impact, Nimmo says, “This project is about more than just parents’ stories. It’s a reminder of the essential role families play in teaching young people the values of fairness, empathy and action.”
The team spent two and a half years filming, with funding from Tyler Rigg Foundation and support from PSU. Accessible in English, Spanish and Chinese, “Families Embracing Anti-Bias Values” is free to stream online with resources like a facilitator’s guide, social media toolkit and community screening materials.