2026 Film Festival

Be More Than an Audience. Be a Champion.

Democracy doesn’t screen itself, help up shine a spotlight on it. Sponsor or host a Defense of Democracy Film Festival in your community and help bring powerful stories of freedom, courage, and civic life to audiences who need them most. Every screening is an act of commitment — join us and make yours count.

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The Price of Freedom

The Defense of Democracy Film Festival 2026 presents “The Price of Freedom” — a focused, immersive documentary festival that examines the real costs of defending truth, education, and democratic values in an era of rising censorship and extremism.

Held during Pride Month, the 2026 festival highlights documentary films that confront attacks on public education, book bans, censorship, the marginalization of LGBTQIA+ communities, and the erosion of intellectual and academic freedom. These films do more than document injustice — they ask who pays the price when voices are silenced, histories are erased, and fear is normalized.

Building on the impact of previous festivals that engaged thousands of viewers and activists nationwide, the 2026 program is intentionally designed as a concentrated virtual festival weekend, encouraging audiences to commit, watch, and engage deeply across all three days.

Following the festival weekend, select films will be featured in satellite screenings, accompanied by live Q&A discussions with filmmakers and educational partnerships.

The Defense of Democracy Film Festival seeks powerful documentary voices that illuminate the consequences of silence, challenge authoritarian narratives, and inspire collective action in defense of public education, free expression, and democratic resilience.

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Join The Fun!

Film Fest Bundle Pass – $50
Experience the full power of the Defense of Democracy Film Festival with an All-Access Pass. This pass unlocks streaming access to all 7 award-winning feature films and our official Youth Civic Voices film collection. Support filmmakers, amplify young voices, and watch at your own pace during the virtual festival window.

One Film Solo Screening Pass – $15
Select a single feature film or short film block to stream at your convenience. Whether you’re drawn to one powerful documentary or exploring a timely issue, this option is perfect for festivalgoers who want to engage with a specific story. Note: You’ll choose your film after checkout.

Passes