February Seminar Features Screening of “Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty”

On Friday, February 3rd, the College of Natural Resources welcomes award-winning PBS director John de Graaf to campus on Friday, February 3rd to preview and discuss his new documentary film “Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty.”

This film captures the inspiring story of one of the most effective environmentalists in American history, former Interior Secretary Stewart Udall (1920-2010). Considered the first public official to speak out against climate change in the 1960s, Udall pushed legislation through Congress that mandated clean air and water, water, preservation of wilderness areas, restrictions on pesticides, reclamation of strip mining, and the establishment of Wild and Scenic Rivers and the National Trails System. He also changed the Bureau of Indian Affairs to provide greater self-determination for Native tribes and was a champion of arts and culture.

After working for the Department of the Interior, Udall fought actively for the cancer victims of fallout from atomic testing and from uranium mining to receive compensation. He spent his final days in Santa Fe, completing nine books and publishing countless articles, beginning with his 1963 best-seller, The Quiet Crisis.

The documentary explores Udall’s legacy as an advocate for social and environmental justice, international cooperation, art and poetry, and – most of all – the protection of our natural environment. The story highlights the bi-partisan nature of Udall’s efforts and calls on us to move beyond the political polarization of our time and work together to protect our shared natural heritage.

The screening will be followed by a 30-minute panel discussion with de Graaf as well as park professionals and scholars from across NC State’s campus. This event is part of the PRTM Department’s seminar series. Some of his well known books include the international best-seller Affluenza and Take Back Your Time.

The event, open and free to the public, will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 pm in the Jordan Hall auditorium (Jordan 1216). No RSVP required. If you have questions about the film screening, contact Lincoln Larson at LRLarson@ncsu.edu).