Public Screening of 'Pay 2 Play: Democracy's High Stakes'

January marks the 5th anniversary of the Supreme Court's Citizens United vs. FEC (Federal Election Commission) ruling, which opened the doors for corporations and other entities with the most financial resources to give, through "superpacs", unlimited amounts of money to election campaigns through outside, (supposedly) independently-formed groups. On this occasion the organization Money Out Voters In has encouraged individuals and groups to hold commemorative events, one option of which is to screen the 2014 documentary film "Pay 2 Play: Democracy's High Stakes". On Sunday, January 18, PASMC will take the opportunity to share this film with our members and the general public.

Filmmaker, writer and activist John Ennis created and directed this 87-minute film which not only tells what kinds of machinations have taken place to influence the vote in not-so-ethical ways, but also asks what can be done about it. Along the way he takes aim at the Koch Brothers and other wealthy influence-peddlers, as well as the politicians to whom they've "paid to play". He follows the twists and turns of candidates who try not to let money play such a significant part in their efforts. And he uses the history of the board game Monopoly to tell his tale of haves vs. have-nots.

While mixing in some irreverence with this serious subject, "Pay 2 Play" includes the input of such observers and activists as Noam Chomsky, Robert Reich, Marianne Williamson, Van Jones and Marge Baker. The film promises to offer solutions and ways to push back - ingredients we are all looking for in our information.

The January 18 screening of "Pay 2 Play" is at 7 PM in Beck Hall at the Unitarian Universalists of San Mateo, 300 E. Santa Inez Avenue (at Ellsworth) in San Mateo. Admission is free, contributions will be accepted. The UUSM is wheelchair accessible. An open discussion will follow the screening.
We look forward to seeing you for some entertainment, information and hope!