In 2005, a landmark 5-4 Supreme Court ruling damaged individual property rights. Specifically, the Kelo v. City of New London case established an unfair eminent domain precedent. Little Pink House, an independent film released this year, speaks to this issue. It dramatizes the heartbreak of New London, Connecticut residents who lost their homes in this unfortunate court decision. Perhaps no Supreme Court case since Plessy v. Ferguson has triggered such disastrous, far-reaching consequences.
Eminent domain cases are nothing new. Governments have confiscated property in the past for highways and other public-interest projects. However, Kelo was the first instance of the courts ruling in favor of transferring privately-held property from one group of individuals to others. Ironically, in the Kelo case, the developers who acquired property in New London failed in their task. They couldn’t follow through with their end of the deal. Some thirteen years later, despite the fact that the city condemned and razed residents’ homes, the property remains vacant.
Catherine Keener is a marvelous actor best known for her role as Harper Lee in the film Capote. In Little Pink House, she plays Susette Kelo, the main plaintiff in the case, who fights to keep her home. Here is a link to the film’s trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUptZEZdT-M
A tentative screening of the film in Colorado Springs is scheduled for Wednesday, June 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The theater is located at Cinemark Carefree Circle and Imax Theater, 3505 Cinema Point. However, 78 people must purchase tickets by the June 20 deadline for the film to play. Tickets cost about $12 plus tax. Also, purchasers will receive a refund if not enough tickets are sold to meet the threshold. Here is a link if you wish to purchase tickets. https://www.tugg.com/events/little-pink-house-oeak
In these days of contentious political divisions, Little Pink House should appeal to almost everyone. For instance, progressives worry about large corporations swaying politicians and judges. Likewise, conservatives and libertarians dislike the unchecked power of state and federal governments over citizens. Moreover, everyone will be touched by the heartbreaking story of an ordinary person caught between forces far more powerful than herself.
Please spread the word about this important film and join me on June 27 to watch Little Pink House.
