About
Division in America is rampant, but we are convinced not all hope is lost.
We are Erin and David Leaverton. We believe in the power of film as an art form, to touch us and shape culture. We want to tap into that power to create not only a film, but also a catalyst for reconciliation and unity in America.
We’ve sold our home and quit our jobs to embark on an epic, year-long journey to all 50 states with our family of five. Our mission is to spend this time getting to know real Americans, hearing their stories and gathering around tables across the country in pursuit of the things that connect us, regardless of our opinions or preconceived assumptions.
KNOW THY OTHER is our working title for a documentary film project with the lofty goal of raising $180,000 to capture the journey as we encounter our ‘other’ and get a glimpse of their reality through our white, middle-class lens. Our ultimate goal is to invite our audience in, to explore the power of breaking down stereotypes through personal encounters.
We are going with Kickstarter’s “make-it or break-it” model. Though we haven't given failure much thought, we do want to clarify to our backers that falling short of our goal means the money you donate goes directly back into your hands. This is why we need to spread the word and not only hit our goal, but exceed it!
We value total transparency, so we also want to communicate that EVERY SINGLE PENNY of this campaign goes directly to the funding of this film; not to our road trip and not to our organization. (we have formed a non-profit called Undivided Nation. You can check us out here).
The best news is that all contributions made are TAX DEDUCTIBLE!
PROJECT DEETS. We are so invested in this project that we've already put forth money from the sale of our home to professionally capture two of the stops along our route; including Tulsa, OK and Charlotte, NC.
The plan is to meet up with our crew in 6-8 more locations across the country. As we discover both the beauty and horror of how our nation was established and developed into what we see today, viewers will be carried right along with our family on that journey.
Our road trip has officially begun, so the clock is ticking! Our ability to capture and share these stories will depend completely on the success of this campaign, and whether or not YOU share our desire to discover what connects us across our many divides.
END GAME. Our end game is no joke. We want to see the division and fear that has driven us into our echo chambers begin to evaporate in the face of meeting, knowing, and reconciling with one another. Our hope is to use the powerful medium of film to move the needle against hate, bigotry, and division.
On the road we've encountered a quote that deeply resonates with our heart for this project…
“If not us, who? If not now, when?”
These words speak to us every time we question the decision we've made to sell everything and go after this dream. We hope you will consider these words too, and ultimately consider partnering with us to make this timely film a reality!
Help us showcase what could be possible when we choose to KNOW THY OTHER.
Spread the word by clicking the "share" button!
With deep gratitude, The Leavertons
SaveRisks and challenges
Kickstarter is a make-it or break-it model.
We haven't given failure much thought, but we do want to clarify to all our backers that falling short of our goal means all the money you donate goes directly back into your hands.
Learn about accountability on KickstarterQuestions about this project? Check out the FAQ