Chris' Hot Dogs Montgomery, Alabama - a new Film by Carolyn Crowder
I was born in 1946 in Montgomery, Alabama, and grew up during the Civil Rights era. I graduated with the first integrated class at Robert E. Lee High School rebelling against my parents’ attempts to brainwash me into being a “good racist.” I was salvaged through the love shown to me by our family’s maid, Ruby Prevo, my liberal education at Auburn University, and the Presbyterian ministers at the church close to campus.
I make documentary films that explore the “both/and” of deep South racism..and redemption. We southern children were taught to hate the race but love individual Black people who were in our lives.
Chris’ Hot Dogs stand has been an oasis in downtown Montgomery for a 108 years and counting, serving whoever walks through the door. Opened by a Greek immigrant who knew no bigotry, he hired and served Black people, bucking the rigid system of segregation.
I have been going to Chris’ all my life. His story aligns with my interest in producing documentaries that showcase brave people who did the right thing when it was not easy or safe to do so.
