“At the height of the pandemic, I read something that stopped me in my tracks. I read a story about Gary Fowler, a Black man that died in his home because no hospital would treat him despite his COVID-19 symptoms. As we continued to hear how the racial disparities in our country were exacerbated by the effects of the pandemic, I felt something needed to be done. This film is my way of doing something, with the intention that the stories we share serve as both a warning and foster a deeper understanding of what changes need to take place to better serve us all.“
– Oprah Winfrey, Executive Producer
Collaboration between Western Spirit and the Smithsonian continues to build. After a series of successful grants, The Color of Care is the newest Smithsonian opportunity affording Western Spirit the occasion to expand its programming in new ways—connecting health, the public, our local healthcare systems, and artwork by local artist Jen Urso, in a pop-up installation, panel discussion, and film screening of the documentary, The Color of Care. Produced by Oprah’s Harpo Productions and directed by Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning director Yance Ford, the film traces the origins of racial health disparities to practices that began during slavery and continue today. Addressing contemporary issues utilizing artwork made in the West serves as a conduit for conversation, collaboration, and consideration. True to its mission, Western Spirit boldly immerses its guests in the unique story of the Greater Western region, illuminating the past to shape our future. Dialogue framed in this community-focused, civic-oriented space helps in building more verdant opportunities for all.
‘The Color of Care’ is Inspired by Gary Fowler’s Story
Gary Fowler was a 56-year-old father who died of COVID-19 after he was turned away several times from three different hospitals in March 2020. Fowler’s story and that of his family are what inspired the idea for the documentary. When Winfrey read the story of Gary Fowler, first published in the Detroit Free Press, she said his story and the image of Fowler’s son, Keith Gambrell “haunted” her.
Source: 5 Things to Know About Oprah’s The Color of Care, Katana Dumont, May 05, 2022
The Color of Care debuted Sunday, May 1, 2022, on the Smithsonian Channel.
The Color of Care chronicles how people of color suffer from systemically substandard healthcare. COVID-19 exposed what they have long understood and lived: they do not receive the same level of care. Using moving personal testimony, expert interviews, and disturbing data, the film reveals the impact of racism on health, serving as an urgent warning of what must be done to save lives.
Interested in attending the August 3rd event? Learn more and register here. Seating is limited.
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