WASHINGTON – As Amazing Grace opens in theatres nationwide this Friday, The Humane Society of the United States urges moviegoers to see the inspiring film this weekend and take action to carry on William Wilberforce's vision of mercy and justice.
An epic story of courage and compassion, Amazing Grace is the true story of William Wilberforce (1759-1833) and a community of abolitionists who awaken the conscience of a nation, taking on the most powerful interests of their day to end the British slave trade. Wilberforce and his friends initiated more than 60 social reforms and were instrumental in starting the first animal welfare society, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
"William Wilberforce was a political activist who was not only a leading abolitionist but one of the founding figures of the animal protection movement," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. "The film captures Wilberforce's determination to end the cruelty and suffering imposed on both humans and animals in his era, and it's an inspiring story of how one person can make a difference."
The HSUS hosted advance screenings of the film in Washington and Los Angeles, and has produced an online video with exclusive footage available that can be viewed by clicking here.
More information on William Wilberforce and his pioneering role in the animal protection movement is available here.
Produced by Bristol Bay Productions and directed by Michael Apted, Amazing Grace stars Ioan Gruffudd as Wilberforce, with Albert Finney, Romola Garai, Michael Gambon, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rufus Sewell, Ciaran Hinds, and Youssou N'Dour in supporting roles. More information on the film is available at www.amazinggracemovie.com
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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with nearly 10 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammals, animals in research, equine protection, and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy and field work. The nonprofit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country.
