Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Dogs of Democracy

Dogs are cherished members of the community in many parts of the world, but in the cradle of western civilization, Athens, humankind's canine friends have achieved a status heretofore unimaginable.

Pro-democracy protestor.

The story of how this shift in perception took place is gloriously captured in Dogs of Democracy, a documentary by Australian director Mary Zournazi. Beautiful strays like Loukanikos, pictured to the right, have become newfound symbols of hope amidst social unrest. Of course, no one is suggesting that dogs are leading intellectuals in the protests against austerity measures and foreign interference in domestic affairs, but dogs do show an understanding of square offs with police and the need to protect something dear from overwhelming, blunt force.

Witness the bravery of Loukanikos and others as they march to the front lines of protests, risking life and limb for their own, relatable, values. You can watch the trailer here: Dogs of Democracy Trailer