Iron Ladies of Liberia

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is the first ever freely elected female head of state in Africa. How will she lead?

Daniel Junge / Liberia / 2007 / 60 min

After surviving a 14-year civil war and a government riddled with corruption, Liberia is ready for change. On January 16, 2006, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was inaugurated President – the first freely elected female head of state in Africa. Having won a hotly contested election with the overwhelming support of women across Liberia, Sirleaf faces the daunting task of lifting her country from debt and devastation. She turns to a remarkable team of women, appointing them in positions such as police chief, finance minister, minister of justice, commerce minister and minister of gender.

With exclusive access, directors Siatta Scott Johnson and Daniel Junge follow these “Iron Ladies” behind the scenes during their critical first year in office as they tackle indolent bureaucracy, black markets and the omnipresent threat of violent riots. Highlighting the challenges that African countries currently face, this film provides an uplifting example of women who have become the backbone of change. As the filmmakers explore a historic transition from authoritarianism to democracy, the viewer is treated to a joyous, inspirational testimony of the political power of women's leadership and diplomacy.

Trailer

Credits

Awards & Festivals

AFI Dallas Int'l Film Festival, Target Ten Filmmaker, Best Doc

One World Int’l Human Rights Documentary Film Festival, Prague, Best Film from One World for Schools

* Toronto Int’l FF
* Int’l Doc FF, Amsterdam (IDFA)
* Human Rights Watch Int'l FF, London
* Miami Int'l FF
* Mill Valley FF
* Silverdocs FF
* Denver FF
* Bermuda Int'l FF
* Cleveland Int'l FF
* Woodstock FF
* United Nations Association FF
* Hopkins Film Center, NH

Film site & Reviews

» official site

» The Liberian Dialogue

» Why Democracy

Get Involved

» Empowering Women in Liberia