From directors Julie Cohen and Betsy West, the documentarians who brought you RBG, comes the extremely unlikely and fascinating back story of legal efforts to end discrimination on the basis of sex and the singular role of a non-binary Black lawyer in constructing these critical arguments. 

Orphaned at three years old, black, and struggling with self-image, Pauli Murray makes legal history multiple times but without credit – until now. This film depicts the challenges Murray faced, born in 1910, in the pursuit of an education. Even after a rigorous academic life, Murray struggled to be heard. Nonetheless, Murray persisted and was a major influence on both Thurgood Marshall and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, among others. 

Words like triumphant and inspiring are overused, but not here. Those interested in the history of race and gender in America will be sustained and in those who are not yet, a spark will be ignited. 

– Lisa Aspinwall, Damn These Heels programming committee member

My Name Is Pauli Murray sold out at its premiere at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.