SYNOPSIS

Fighting for Respect captures the plight of African American soldiers who fought in WWI, receiving the Croix de Guerre military decoration from France, while still fighting discrimination and hatred at home in America.

Convinced that their much-praised heroism overseas would translate to civil rights at home, the returning veterans and their communities instead became the target of unspeakable violence waged by white supremacists during the fiery Red Summer of 1919.

The complexity of this gripping story is retold through rare archival film footage, letters written home from the Front, and incisive commentary from academic experts. In addition, the focus on the experiences of several distinguished soldiers provides thought-provoking insight as to how African American participation abroad advanced the fight for equality, respect, and freedom in the United States.