Deacons for Defense

Overview

Inspired by a true story, this drama is set in 1965, not long after passage of the Civil Rights Act. Despite the Act, the African-American citizens of Bogalusa are still treated like third-class citizens, their fundamental rights as human beings persistently trampled by the white power structure, in general, and the local branch of the KKK. The story follows the formation of local black men, particularly ex-war veterans who after the struggles become too overbearing organizes the group, "Deacons for defense", an all-black defense group dedicated to patrolling the black section of town and protecting its residents from the more violent aspects of "white backlash."

Cast

Forest Whitaker

Marcus Clay

Jonathan Silverman

Michael Deane

Chris Britton

William Chase

Ossie Davis

Reverend 'Rev' Gregory

Tyrone Benskin

Archie

Mpho Koaho

Bailey

Melanie Nicholls-King

Rose Clay

N/A

Adam Weiner

Charles Hillibrand

Boyd Banks

Weber

Paul Benjamin

Otis

N/A

Aaron Walpole

Jimmy

Beau Starr

Neely