Socially Engaged
Cultural Documentation
& Journalism
by Cody Boston
FEATURED PROJECTS
Reproductive Rights
Director/Producer/Editor/Camera Operator
For this episode of the monthly series Flatland that I produce, direct, shoot and edit, we were able to speak to the many concerned people in Kansas and Missouri.
With the Supreme Court having overturned Roe V. Wade, all eyes turn to the constitutional amendment on the ballot in Kansas. The Flatland team takes a look at the consequences the decision would have on people in our region.
Host D. Rashaan Gilmore talks to Justice Gatson of Reale Justice Network, Dr. Iman Alsaden of Planned Parenthood of the Great Plains, Yvette Lindgren from the UMKC School of Law and Kelsey Walker, founder of From the Green Desk, a support group for people who have had abortions.
Land of Opportunity
Director/Producer/Editor/Camera Operator
Land of Opportunity is a historical documentary special that looks at the racist history of housing segregation in Kansas City, MO and how the black residents of the Santa Fe Place neighborhood fought to integrate and in turn, change the housing landscape of the United States. Land of Opportunity aired on Kansas City PBS and won an NATAS Midwest Regional Emmy in 2020 for Best Historical Documentary.
Gender Affirming Care
Director/Producer/Editor/Camera Operator
Transgender rights continue to dominate headlines as legislatures across the country push restrictive laws with Missouri and Kansas following suit. Those most directly affected by these measures must look at how they will access medical care, who will legally provide it and where they can find sanctuary. This month, "Flatland in Focus" examines these issues with members of the trans community and those who provide care and support.
An Eviction Crisis
Worsens
Director/Producer/Editor/Camera Operator
An eviction crisis existed in Kansas City before the pandemic. The pandemic has made it explode. Between moratoriums, foreclosures, and evictions there are lives at stake and nothing is certain.
This story from Flatland was done in collaboration with community journalists and shares perspectives of those experiencing evictions in the middle of a pandemic.