This collection makes LAPL the home of an incredible archive of social protest and peaceful resistance from the Vietnam War era. The subject matter could not be more germane or the collection more timely, in light of the resurgence of peaceful resistance movements across the country. Our special collections are free and accessible to all without fee, meaning this collection can be viewed and used by researcher and layperson alike.

The innovation preserves and makes accessible the legacy of a peaceful protest movement from the mid-1960s to 1970s, which can serve as a blueprint for resistance movements and resisters nationwide today. Three researchers (working on books/theses) came to view and use the collection even before a finding aid was completed. Academy award nominated filmmaker Judith Ehrlich is currently preparing a documentary using footage from the collection.

This archive has not only contributed valuable footage to a documentary film, “The Boys Who Said No!,” but is also important for students of the history of nonviolent direct action movements in this country. Digitized images will be made accessible through our digital collections portal that will debut later this year. The archive is still growing as resisters spread the word and donate their materials.