"Pray the Devil Back to Hell" is the extraordinary story of a small band of Liberian women who came together in the midst of a bloody civil war, took on the violent warlords and corrupt Charles Taylor regime, and won a long-awaited peace for their shattered country in 2003.
As the rebel noose tightened upon Monrovia, and peace talks faced collapse, the women of Liberia—Christian and Muslims united—formed a thin but unshakable white line between the opposing forces, and successfully demanded an end to the fighting. They were armed only with white T-shirts and the courage of their convictions.
This remarkable chapter of world history was on its way to being lost forever. The Liberian war and peace movement were largely ignored as the international press focused on Iraq. Moreover, the women’s own modesty helped obscure this great accomplishment.
"Pray the Devil Back to Hell" reconstructs the moment through interviews, archival footage, and striking images of contemporary Liberia. It is compelling testimony to the potential of women worldwide to alter the history of nations.
Winner Best Documentary Feature 2008 Tribeca Film Festival
Welcoming Remarks:
Tina Leone, Executive Director, Lorton Arts Foundation
Featured Speakers:
Abigail Disney, Producer, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell"
Leymah Gbowee, Organizer, Women in Peacebuilding Network; Subject, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell"
Gini Reticker, Director, "Pray the Devil Back to Hell"
Moderated by:
Gayle Smith, Co-founder, Enough Project; Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress