The Right to Vend 2016
Distributed by Third World Newsreel, 545 Eighth Avenue, Suite 550, New York, NY 10018; 212-947-9277
Produced by Third World Newsreel Workshop
Directed by Naomi Abraham, Melissa Cox, Nseabasi Esema, Mtume Gant, Cynthia Wright, Henrietta Yuki
DVD , color, 10 min.
High School - General Adult
Political Science, Business, Sociology
Date Entered: 12/18/2017
Reviewed by Andrew Koval, MSLSThe Right to Vend is a brief ten minute introduction into the bureaucratic challenges that confront street food vendors in New York City. What results is a David versus Goliath narrative, pitting entrepreneurs versus government regulation. The monopoly on vendor licenses and the arbitrary enforcement of the permit policy by officials are explored.
Grassroots in tone, issues such as community enrichment and economic opportunity seek to implore audience awareness of government corruption on the local level—a relatable theme which lends further persuasion to the film’s claims. Additionally, a call to action in resolving this is intimated. Similarly themed films include Brooklyn Farmer as this also advocates the right to quality food in an urban environment.
Clarification between licenses and permits is needed to bring some background and context to the film. Regardless, it induces sympathy for the plight of the small business owner. The Right to Vend is a worthwhile conversation piece for classes covering entrepreneurship.