This film has been generously sponsored by CBFF in memory of Cyndy Renier, and Baile Griffith; and by Joanne and David Tagieff

In this David vs. Goliath story, the youth of America files suit against the United States Government. 

YOUTH V GOV is the story of America’s youth taking on the world’s most powerful government. This groundbreaking lawsuit asserts that the US Government has willfully acted over six decades to create the climate crisis, thus endangering constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property. 

The plaintiffs hail from across the country, encompassing cultural, economic, racial, and geographic diversity. Many live in marginalized communities, and yet, these stories are universal. Their diversity speaks not only to the impacts of climate change, but to the inclusion required if we are to build a better, more just future together. If these young people are successful, they will not only make history, they will change the future.

Director Christi Cooper is a PhD scientist, documentary filmmaker, and Emmy-award winning cinematographer. Christi focuses her storytelling and visual narratives on issues of justice and impact by creating human connections to the most pressing issues of our time. Her film awards include Wildscreen’s Panda Award for Best Campaign Film, Cleveland International Film Festival’s ReelWomen Direct Award for Excellence in Directing by a Woman, EarthxFilm’s Impact Award for Feature film, Best Environmental Film from Backcountry Film Festival, Best Youth Film from Colorado Environmental Film Festival, and Best Made in Montana from the International Wildlife Film Festival, among others. Christi is the inaugural SFFilm/Vulcan Productions Environmental Film Fellow and the first Jacob Burns Film Center Focus on Nature Artist-in-Resident.