“Open Secret,” explores corrupt governing bodies in New Hanover County, NC, that allowed for systemic racism, and child sexual assaults to permeate its school district. The crimes were covered up and unreported by key administrators and faculty members - for decades. We explore how this culture devolved to the point it protected predators over children, and through institutional collusion, caused immense suffering for victims and their families. We also looked for solutions. To this end, we found and interviewed community members who are taking matters into their own hands, challenging the status quo and redesigning what education will look like for their children in this county.

A handful of courageous residents decided to unite and confront the corruption that invaded their schools. Would they fall victim to the same scare tactics that had controlled the county for decades? Or would they succeed - and disrupt this culture of fear?

Our four year journey documenting their challenges, and ultimate success, involved tragic suicides, additional sexual abuse scandals, discrimination and sanctions imposed on New Hanover County, intimidation, threats, targeting, multiple betrayals, cover-ups, lies, collusion, and staggering conflicts of interest. Encouragingly, it also led to key players in some of these activities being forced out amidst scandals and accusations.

Investigations by the FBI and SBI (Federal Bureau and State Bureau) ensued. The SBI’s would take a staggering three years to conclude, but its very presence offered a glimmer of hope to the community; that justice and accountability might be forthcoming. After multiple lawsuits-a path emerged, but the results would be shocking.  

The ultimate turn of events only heightens the need for voter vigilance. Selecting which candidates will fight for their communities, which will act on their values, and which are running to further their own ambitions, or cater to the most influential members in their community?

Join us as we raise completion funds for our film, help to bring this cautionary tale into the light as we seek #justice and #accountability from those who betrayed these children at every turn.