The Trials of Muhammad Ali

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This film covers the explosive crossroads of Ali’s life. When Cassius Clay became Muhammad Ali, his conversion to Islam and refusal to serve in the Vietnam War left him banned from boxing and facing a five-year prison sentence. Ali’s choice of belief and conscience over fame and fortune resonates far beyond the boxing ring, striking issues of race, faith, and identity that continue to confront us all today.

Stay after the film for a panel discussion featuring:

  • Dr. Stefan Bradley, Associate Professor of History, Saint Louis University
  • Michael McPhearson, Executive Director, Veterans for Peace
  • Maysa Albarcha, Islamic Speakers Bureau

This program is part of the Community Cinema series, which features free monthly screenings of a films scheduled for broadcast on the Emmy Award–winning PBS Series Independent Lens, followed by related discussions and activities.