Directed by Chris Baron and Bryan Tucker, Lynden explores the deep political and cultural divisions within a small, conservative town. Specifically, the filmmakers venture to Lynden, Washington, and pay special attention to the story of Amsa Burke, a 17-year-old girl adopted from Ethiopia, as she organizes Lynden’s first racial justice march in the wake of George Floyd’s killing. She has grown up in Lynden with her adoptive parents, Roger and Lynda Burke, and the film recounts her experiences of racism, feelings of non-acceptance, and her disappointment in a community that is mostly white and shaped by the strong religious values of the community.
As Amsa plans the march for Black Lives on July 5, 2020, tensions rise between two disparate sides: members of the conservative church led by counter-protester Wylin Tjoelker and the organization RUN: Racial Unity Now. The march itself becomes the documentary’s central flashpoint: peaceful protesters are met with flag-waving counter-protesters, some carrying firearms, and the tension is palpable, and emotions run high as, with one wrong move, this singular event could turn into a tragic disaster.
One notable strength of Chris Baron and Bryan Tucker’s documentary is its honest presentation of both sides. For the most part, they have access to both sides of the conflict and let the cameras roll, allowing interview subjects to speak freely and convey their full perspectives. Documentaries can have a bias, especially a political one, but good documentaries present the facts and let you decide. Lynden does exactly that.
“…[Amsa Burke] organizes Lynden’s first racial justice march in the wake of George Floyd’s killing.”
That said, depending on how you voted last year, you’ll likely love half the movie and despise the other half for tone consistency. Often, I walk into a documentary hoping to find a glimmer of hope, but Lynden accurately presents the current political divide in America. There is a hope that both sides will listen to one another, find common ground, and strive toward unity, but is it too late? Let’s hope not.
Regarding the main subject of Lynden, Amsa, she is a very articulate 17-year-old and perfect as the film’s focal point. Being a somewhat politically savvy person myself, I definitely have my opinions about her experiences and perspectives. She not only represents herself well, but also the progressive cause, especially during the time after George Floyd’s tragic death.
Lastly, I’ll point to the main conflict: the role of the church during times of racial injustice. Like the town itself, the churches are divided between the conservative faith of the founding fathers and the compassionate faith that stands up for the oppressed. The two sides conflict with one another, and there is a level of disappointment in the citizens of Lynden as to why God can’t just pick a side.
I mentioned the incredible access that Baron and Tucker got during the protests. What you also get is a beautiful representation of small-town Middle America juxtaposed with the demonstrations. It’s the classic battle between big-city politics and small-town values.
In the end, Lynden captures both the pain and promise of a community forced to confront its differences. While the divide remains stark, the documentary leaves open the possibility that dialogue, understanding, and unity might still take root.
"…captures both the pain and promise of a community forced to confront its differences."
