Upstander Project

About Upstander Project

Our Mission: Upstander Project uses storytelling to amplify silenced narratives, develop upstander skills to challenge systemic injustice, and nurture compassionate, courageous relationships that honor the interconnection of all beings and the Earth. Our Vision: We envision a world rooted in responsibility and respect for all where upstanders confront injustice and repair harm to ensure all beings thrive together. What We Do: Upstander Project is a Boston-based organization founded in 2009 by Emmy Award-winning documentarian Adam Mazo, and educator and curriculum designer, Dr. Mishy Lesser. We produce social issue documentaries, design companion teaching guides and lesson plans for educators, facilitate teacher workshops, and present our movies at film festivals, international conferences and educational and cultural institutions. Upstander Project uses our documentaries and learning resources to dismantle hurtful and stereotypical racist ideas. Film screenings are paired with conversations and teacher workshops. Our purpose is to create opportunities for deep engagement that inspire teachers and their students to become upstanders by creating more inclusive curricula, schools, public conversations and spaces.