Acclaimed producers Sandy Woodson and Emily Woodring, known for their Regional Emmy-nominated work, are proud to present the premiere of the second part of their groundbreaking documentary series, "AIDS in KC: Facing the Challenge." Following the success of the first installment, which shed light on the desperation and confusion surrounding the early days of the HIV/AIDS crisis in Kansas City, this follow-up delves into the inspiring efforts of local community members who united to support those affected by the epidemic amidst a lack of government intervention. The premiere will air on KCPBS Channel 19.1 on Thursday, June 22, with “AIDS in KC: The Early Days” airing at 7 p.m. and "Facing the Challenge” immediately following at 7:30 p.m.
"The first part of this series was about death and dying," says Woodson, "because that was all there was."
Woodson, who spearheaded the project, emphasizes the importance of community support during this pivotal phase of the outbreak. Faced with inadequate government assistance and limited medical knowledge, the affected communities took it upon themselves to organize grassroots efforts, providing essential services such as education on virus transmission and support hotlines for information and palliative care.
Woodson reflects on the profound impact of the period, stating, "I feel like there were so many walking wounded at that time. So many people who were going through so much pain and fear alone." Despite mainstream indifference and the perception that AIDS was a punishment for an "alternative lifestyle," resilient individuals stepped forward to form groups like the "Condom Crusaders" and launch initiatives like the Gay Talk and Teens TAP information hotlines. Additionally, the Kansas City drag troupe known as the "Trollops" emerged as a powerful force in fundraising for local AIDS service organizations.
Notably, even local churches played an unexpected role in providing support. While some pastors initially viewed homosexuality as a moral failing, a few recognized the church's potential as a vehicle for disseminating life-saving information.
A FREE screening of "AIDS in KC: Facing the Challenge" will be held Sunday, June 18, at 2 p.m. at the Plaza Branch of the Kansas City Public Library. This event offers an opportunity for the community to engage with a panel of individuals featured in the film and gain a deeper understanding of the critical issues it addresses. More information about the event can be found at kansascitypbs.org/events.
Join us as we commemorate the bravery, resilience and collective spirit of a community that faced unimaginable challenges head-on. Tune in for the premiere of "AIDS in KC: Facing the Challenge" and be inspired by the stories of those who came together to support their friends, families, and neighbors in need.