Womens History Month 2023: Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay is an American filmmaker, director, and screenwriter known for her commitment to highlighting the stories and struggles of underrepresented communities, particularly African Americans. Born in Long Beach, California in 1972, DuVernay began her career as a publicist for major film studios before moving into directing and screenwriting.

DuVernay's breakout film was the 2014 drama "Selma," which chronicles the historic civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The film was widely praised for its powerful portrayal of the movement and received several award nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.

DuVernay has since gone on to direct a number of critically acclaimed films and TV series, including "13th," a documentary examining the history of racial inequality in the United States, and "When They See Us," a miniseries based on the true story of the Central Park Five, a group of Black and Latino teenagers who were wrongfully convicted of a brutal assault in New York City in 1989.

DuVernay is also known for her advocacy work and commitment to increasing diversity in Hollywood. She founded the film collective ARRAY, which aims to promote and distribute films made by people of color and women, and she has been outspoken about the need for greater representation and opportunities for underrepresented filmmakers.

Through her work, Ava DuVernay has become a prominent voice in the film industry and a champion for social justice and equity.