Film Lens
Accidental Activists is a 2016 documentary directed by Mandi Wright that follows April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse as they challenge Michigan's adoption law and same-sex marriage ban. The couple, both nurses, initially sought joint custody of their four adopted children but faced legal barriers due to their same-sex relationship. After a federal judge suggested they amend their lawsuit to challenge the marriage ban, their case became part of a larger federal lawsuit that ultimately reached the U.S. Supreme Court, contributing to nationwide marriage equality.
The film chronicles their five-year legal battle, highlighting the personal stakes involved in their activism. It features the couple's emotional experiences and the legal arguments made by their lawyers, Carole Stanyar and Dana Nessel. Through their story, the documentary illustrates the impact of discriminatory laws on families and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their loved ones.
Why Watch
- •Meet April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, pivotal LGBTQ activists.
- •Follow their legal battle against Michigan's same-sex marriage ban.
- •See how personal experiences drive activism and legal change.
Did You Know
•April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse adopted four children before filing their lawsuit.
•The couple's case reached the U.S. Supreme Court, impacting marriage equality nationwide.
•Dana Nessel, one of their lawyers, is now the first openly gay Michigan Attorney General.
Perfect For
LGBTQ rightsLegal battlesFamily lawActivism stories