History and The People Speak Non Profit Organization, Voices of a People’s History of the United States, have joined forces to premiere The People Speak, a film that I will be reviewing which focuses on the concept of democracy, based on the lives and experiences of ordinary Americans who, through their words and actions, changed the course of history. The film will take viewers on a journey from the founding of this country to the civil rights movement and beyond.

History will also partner with Voices of a People’s History of the United States to develop enhanced, co-branded curriculums for a countrywide educational initiative. Also, at least 24 shorts surrounding the concept of democracy will be created for viral, VOD and online dissemination.

The People Speak will feature dramatic performances chronicling the history of this country, including charter documents, letters, diaries and more, from such celebrities as Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, Kerry Washington, Marisa Tomei, Jasmine Guy, Morgan Freeman, Don Cheadle, Rosario Dawson, Danny Glover, Sandra Oh, Q’orianka Kilcher, Michael Ealy, Viggo Mortensen, David Strathairn, and musical performances from Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, Allison Moorer and John Legend.

Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, Chris Moore, Anthony Arnove and Howard Zinn are Executive Producers. For History, David McKillop and Russ McCarroll are the Executive Producers. Says Matt Damon, “I am a firm believer in this project, proud to be part of it and proud that we are working jointly with History. The message that is so critical to disseminate is that change doesn’t come from the top, but rather from the bottom, and that without everyday citizens pushing to make a difference, there would be no America.”

The People Speak Premieres Sunday December 13, 2009 at 8/7c on History.