Arms dealer-turned-activist says U.S. is letting people living in the states “slip through the cracks”

The United Nations recently wrapped up their Summit For the Future, with the signing of a global pact focused on sustainability, gender equality, youth engagement, and peacemaking.

But what if the communities that pact is geared to serve have already taken matters into their own hands? What if they’re already working toward these goals, with the specific needs of their neighbors in mind?

Jim Merkel has thought about this a lot. His new documentary, Saving Walden’s World, delves into sustainable living solutions that meet – and even exceed, in some cases – the UN’s goals.

The film will be screened at the IRIS Global Health Film Festival tonight, at eTown Hall in Boulder, at 6:45 p.m., followed by a Q&A with Jim and Micklina Kenyi of Boulder-based “Girls with Books!“.

Jim joined KGNU’s Jackie Sedley in the studio to discuss his journey toward social change, his thoughts on “white saviorism” and gender inequality, and more.

Listen:

As a part of KGNU’s Fall Fund Drive, an $88.50 donation can get you an all-access pass to the IRIS Global Health Film Festival. Call 303-449-4885 or go to the “donate” page on kgnu.org to donate and get your pass to see Saving Walden’s World and other films (program schedule can be found here).