"Public Defender" Screening & Panel Overview 

On January 29, 2025, the Media and Peacebuilding Project hosted a screening of "Public Defender" a timely and thought-provoking documentary directed by Andrea Kalin and GW SMPA alum Ethan Oser. The film unravels the January 6th Capitol riot through the lens of Heather Shaner, a veteran public defender based in Washington, DC.

With over 45 years of law experience, Shaner faced one of her most challenging professional and personal tests yet: defending individuals who participated in the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Among her clients are Jack Griffith, a social media influencer, and Annie Howell, a single mother and painter—two people swept up by online misinformation and conspiracy theories who believed they were defending democracy rather than contributing to its destabilization.

Shaner, who has represented 42 January 6th defendants to date, navigates the difficult terrain of justice, empathy, and personal conviction. Living in DC for decades, she personally knew many of the police officers who testified against her clients, making this work extremely close to home.

"Public Defender" is a window into the fragile state of U.S. democracy and a compelling exploration of the ideologies that both divide and unite Americans. The documentary underscores how misinformed perceptions can fracture communities but also how connection and understanding can begin to heal those rifts.

Following the screening, a panel discussion featured senior producer Kate Woodsome, director Andrea Kalin, director of photography Ethan Oser, and Heather Shaner herself. The conversation centered on the importance of depolarization and unity in peacebuilding efforts. Panelists emphasized that bridging ideological divides is essential for the long-term health of a democratic society.