Thanks to those who have contributed funds, ideas, and/or moral support, the Progressives Against Medical Assisted Suicide (PAMAS) film about the social and humanitarian dangers of legalizing medical assisted suicide is on target for completion by the end of the year. On September 16th, four interviews were filmed, each powerful in its own way. We are looking forward to a second group on November 12th. We are working on background content, and our filmmaker will complete a “first draft edit” late in November which we will review for a final edit. Then, ASL sign language interpretation will be synced in for the completed version.
2025 arrives soon, bringing a new legislative session in many states. New bills to legalize MAS will likely be introduced throughout the country. In Connecticut, for example, proponents are likely to sponsor a bill in the Judiciary Committee, which they have stated publicly they will pack with supporters, rigging the game in advance. So, it’s prime time for public discussions about the general issue. We are seeking venues in which to show the film and host discussions following it. We’re approaching libraries, medical schools, colleges and universities, law schools and any other venues that we can think of.
We are pleased to share the film widely so that people all over the country can arrange showings in their own locations. The issue of medical assisted suicide is a national (and international) problem. Many states in the U.S. will have legislation pending next year and in the future, as will Great Britain. Our film will not be specific to any particular state or piece of legislation, so it should be relevant for all areas and for several years at least. It will be available on our website or via YouTube link for people to watch individually, but the beauty of showing the movie quality version to a group is to allow for subsequent discussion and remarks. The film itself will be about 15-20 minutes long. Please contact us if you are interested.
We are also still raising funds to pay for technical help for preservation and distribution of the film; to buy a film projector to use at venues that may not have one; and to do printing and publicity, so any help that you can give would be most appreciated. Make your checks out to Center for Disability Rights. ***IMPORTANT: Write “NDY/PAMAS” in the check memo line.*** Mail checks to NDY/PAMAS, 497 State Street, Rochester, NY 14608. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. If you prefer to use NDY’s online donation button (https://notdeadyet.org/donate-to-not-dead-yet), you must also email the project at ProgressivesagainstMAS@hotmail.com with your name and the amount to distinguish it from other donations to NDY.
