Filmmakers Making A Social Impact: Why & How Filmmaker Terry C Carney Sr of Platinum Golden West Entertainment & Films Is Helping To Change Our World
The Power of Resilience: Growing up in South-Central Los Angeles, where gang violence, robberies, murders, and poverty were everyday realities, I learned the hard way that resilience isn’t just a trait — it’s a necessity. I wish someone had told me about the incredible strength and resilience that could be found even in the toughest environments. It’s crucial to remember that these harsh conditions don’t define who you are or what you can become.
As a part of our series “Filmmakers Making A Social Impact” I had the pleasure of interviewing Terry C. Carney, Sr.
Terry C. Carney, Sr., a filmmaker dedicated to social change, uses his documentary “Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic,” produced by Ice-T, to shed light on the relationship between mental health and gun violence, sparking crucial dialogues on policy reforms. His journey, marked by overcoming personal adversities and the tragic loss of Nipsey Hussle, infuses his storytelling with themes of resilience and redemption, influencing both his films and his role in the community. Through collaborations with influential figures like Cornell Ward and partnerships with Mayor Karen Bass’s office, Carney extends his advocacy to global platforms, planning a film screening tour at venues like the White House and the United Nations to amplify his message on critical social issues.
Thank you so much for doing this interview with us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to get to know you a bit. Can you share your “backstory” that brought you to this career?
Living in Los Angeles, where tragedies and murders due to senseless gun violence are all too common, I felt a profound call to act. The heartbreak and loss around me became a catalyst, pushing me to find a way to shine a spotlight on this critical issue globally. My journey into filmmaking was not just about storytelling; it was about harnessing the power of cinema to provoke thought, stir emotions, and ultimately inspire change. This path led me to create the documentary, “PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC” to advocate, educate, and implore the world to recognize and address the epidemic of gun violence. Through my work, I aim to foster a deeper understanding of the issues and encourage a unified, compassionate response to end these tragedies.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
In my early days, while I was deeply engaged with communities facing severe challenges, I learned that every moment and every interaction carried weight. We were dealing with life-and-death situations, and the gravity of these issues meant that there wasn’t room for light-hearted errors. However, this seriousness taught me an invaluable lesson: the importance of intentionality and precision in my work. It highlighted the need for thorough preparation and the responsibility to approach each project with the utmost care and respect for the subjects and their stories. This focus has guided me throughout my career, reminding me that behind every story are real people and real consequences, necessitating a thoughtful and respectful approach to filmmaking.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
The people that I interviewed in this film are the most interesting, because of their resilience and how they move on. I interviewed a young man by the name of Gabriel. Gabriel was shot in the head at the age of 22, and both of his eyeballs were blown out of his head. Everyone gave up on Gabriel from his friends to the medical staff. Everyone wrote him off as dead. As Gabriel lay in the hospital bed, he could hear the doctors speak and say that he was not going to make it. The doctors and medical staff did not know that Gabriel could hear and understand everything they were saying. Gabriel shared with me, GOD put his hand on him and told him he was going to survive. Gabriel did survive, he is a miracle. Gabriel is very positive and with a smile, he forgives the person who shot him. You have to meet him; he has a light about him and you can feel his positive energy. Ironically, his name is Gabriel. In the bible, there is an angel by the name of Gabriel. Gabriel is an angel who serves as a messenger from GOD: bringing unity, peace, strength, and healing. Gabriel inspires me to have a positive outlook on life and to continue to move forward no matter what the circumstances are in life or the cards that you are dealt with. Gabriel is my hero.
Which people in history inspire you the most? Why?
The three historical figures who inspire me the most are Malcolm X, Barack Obama, and Kamala Harris. Malcolm X, an American Muslim minister and human rights activist, was a fervent advocate for Black nationalism and played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Barack Obama, the first African-American President of the United States, helped the nation recover from the Great Recession and enacted the Affordable Care Act, which extended health insurance to over 20 million previously uninsured Americans. Kamala Harris broke significant barriers as the first female Vice President of the United States, the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, and the first person of African-American and Asian-American descent to hold this position.
Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview, how are you using your success to bring goodness to the world?
My success has become a platform for promoting change and bringing goodness into the world, especially through my documentary ‘PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC.’ In this film, I delve into the pressing issues of mental health and gun violence, shedding light on the human stories behind the statistics. By highlighting these powerful testimonies, I aim to foster a deeper understanding of how these issues intersect and the urgent need for solutions. My goal is not only to educate but also to inspire action, encouraging viewers to engage with and contribute to initiatives that aim to reduce gun violence and support mental health. Through this work, I hope to catalyze a movement towards a more compassionate and safer world.
Can you share with us the meaningful or exciting social impact causes you are working on right now?
Currently, my primary focus is on the social impact of my documentary, ‘PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC.’ This film is creating significant waves in communities by serving as a catalyst for dialogue and collaboration among diverse groups. By bringing together families affected by gun violence, law enforcement, educators, politicians, community activists, and government officials, we’re fostering a comprehensive approach to address this crisis. The film not only raises awareness but also encourages these varied stakeholders to unite in developing and implementing effective strategies to combat gun violence. The impact is palpable as it promotes healing, understanding, and actionable steps towards safer communities. It’s more than a film; it’s a movement that bridges gaps and inspires collective efforts for change.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were going to step up and take action for this cause? What was that final trigger?
My journey towards creating ‘PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC’ was driven by a deep, unyielding frustration with the ongoing violence in my community. The tipping point came from a series of heart-wrenching incidents where lives were senselessly lost to gun violence. Witnessing these tragedies unfold, and feeling the collective grief and helplessness, I realized that mere concern wasn’t enough. I needed to step up, to move beyond feeling to action. It was a moment of profound clarity — a realization that if I didn’t act, these cycles of violence would persist unchallenged. That was my ‘Aha Moment,’ where my frustration transformed into a resolve to make a difference. It pushed me to use the power of film to illuminate these issues, to provoke discussion, and to advocate for meaningful change. It wasn’t just about creating a documentary; it was about igniting a movement to heal and protect our communities.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
At the premiere screening of ‘PUT THE GUNS DOWN: A WORLD EPIDEMIC,’ the emotional impact on the audience was profound and unforgettable. I particularly remember the reaction of the mothers present; their tears were a testament to the film’s deep resonance with their own experiences of loss and fear due to gun violence. It wasn’t just a few tears here and there; virtually every person in the room was moved to tears by the powerful stories shared. This overwhelming response highlighted how the film touched hearts and opened eyes to the harsh realities many face daily. It’s moments like these that reinforce my belief in the film’s potential to foster change and why I feel it is deserving of recognition and awards. The emotional response from the audience, particularly the mothers, shows that the film goes beyond mere storytelling — it acts as a mirror reflecting their pain and calling for urgent action.
Are there three things that individuals, society, or the government can do to support you in this effort?
To support the mission of ‘Put the Guns Down: A World Epidemic,’ there are several key actions that individuals, society, and the government can take. First, I encourage everyone to become active participants in this global movement. By promoting the documentary and advocating for its screening in local movie theaters, you help spread its vital message. It’s about more than just watching a film; it’s about amplifying the call to action and engaging communities in meaningful dialogue and solutions.
Second, I urge people to become vocal advocates and contributors to this cause. Whether by sharing the film’s message on social media, organizing community discussions, or supporting organizations working to reduce gun violence, your involvement can make a significant difference. This effort requires a collective voice that can break through the numbness that often follows reports of gun violence.
Lastly, governments play a crucial role by implementing policies that address the root causes of gun violence and by supporting mental health initiatives. It’s essential for policymakers to listen to the stories and data presented in the documentary and take legislative actions that can prevent future tragedies.
Together, through these combined efforts, we can honor our duty and responsibility to save lives and create a safer world for future generations. Please join me in this urgent call to ‘PUT THE GUNS DOWN’ and make a lasting impact.”
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
1. The Power of Resilience: Growing up in South-Central Los Angeles, where gang violence, robberies, murders, and poverty were everyday realities, I learned the hard way that resilience isn’t just a trait — it’s a necessity. I wish someone had told me about the incredible strength and resilience that could be found even in the toughest environments. It’s crucial to remember that these harsh conditions don’t define who you are or what you can become.
2. The Importance of Resources: In my early years, the lack of resources and positive outlets deeply impacted our community’s ability to thrive. I learned too late that accepting these conditions as ‘normal’ is a grave injustice to any child or adolescent. I wish someone had emphasized the transformative impact that access to education, recreational activities, and support services can have on breaking the cycle of violence and poverty.
3. The Role of Community: I witnessed first-hand how a constrained community can limit personal and collective growth. I wish someone had told me earlier about the importance of community building and the potential for change when people come together to support one another. Creating safe spaces and opportunities for dialogue and development is key to empowering individuals and communities alike.
4. The Value of Advocacy: It took me years to understand the power of raising my voice against the injustices surrounding me. I wish I had known earlier about the role of advocacy in driving change and the importance of speaking out against the conditions that breed violence and despair. Every story and every voice can contribute to a larger movement for justice and reform.
5. The Need for Early Intervention: Seeing the impact of violence and poverty on my peers, I realized the critical need for early intervention in the lives of at-risk youth. I wish someone had told me about the effectiveness of mentorship, counseling, and community programs in providing alternatives to the life of crime and despair that seemed inevitable. Investing in young people’s futures is not just an act of kindness but a strategic move to cultivate a healthier, safer community.
Each of these lessons has shaped my journey and fueled my commitment to making a difference, both through my films and my advocacy work. They underscore the need for comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of violence and deprivation in communities like mine.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
I would tell other young people that being part of a positive movement and leading by example isn’t just about making a difference today — it’s about shaping the future for ourselves and for generations to follow. Every action we take today sets the stage for tomorrow, and our choices have the power to create lasting change. It’s crucial to understand the real consequences of our actions, especially when it comes to gun violence. The irreversible nature of taking a life is a heavy burden — one that echoes through families and communities for years. And for those who end up in prison, the loss is twofold; not only is a life lost outside, but your own life is forever altered within the confines of a system that’s often more dangerous than the streets. By choosing to be a force for good, you’re not just avoiding these tragic outcomes; you’re actively contributing to a safer, better world.
We are very blessed that many other Social Impact Heroes read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would like to collaborate with, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
I am eager to collaborate with Barack and Michelle Obama, as well as Kamala Harris, because of their influential platforms and deep commitment to societal change. The Obamas have consistently demonstrated an ability to inspire and mobilize communities around critical issues, and their insights could greatly enhance our efforts to address the intertwined challenges of mental health and gun violence. Their experience in leading initiatives that bring about real, impactful change is exactly what we need to elevate the conversation and create effective strategies.
Similarly, Kamala Harris’s unique position and her track record of advocating for justice and reform make her an ideal collaborator. Her perspective could provide valuable guidance in navigating the complexities of these issues and in formulating solutions that are both practical and transformative.
Together, I believe we can harness our combined experiences and networks to bring more awareness to these critical issues and develop comprehensive approaches that can lead to lasting improvements in our society.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
The quotes I live by are
The quotes that guide me are from Malcolm X: “If you’re not ready to die for it, put the word ‘freedom’ out of your vocabulary,” and “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” These words have profoundly shaped my perspective and actions. The first quote underscores the depth of commitment required to fight for true freedom. It taught me that meaningful change demands not just passive belief but active, sometimes sacrificial, engagement. This has driven me to pursue my work with a level of dedication that goes beyond mere interest or concern, especially when addressing the pressing issues of gun violence and mental health in my community.
The second quote, about the importance of preparation for the future, has instilled in me the value of foresight and planning. It’s a reminder that every step we take today sets the foundation for tomorrow’s outcomes. This principle has been crucial in my journey as a filmmaker and advocate, where long-term vision and meticulous preparation are key to creating impactful narratives and driving societal change. Both quotes encapsulate the ethos of persistence and foresight that are essential in my mission to make a difference.
How can our readers follow you online?
To stay updated with my work and initiatives, I invite you to visit my website at www.terryccarneysr.com.
This was great, thank you so much for sharing your story and doing this with us. We wish you continued success!
Filmmakers Making A Social Impact: Why & How Filmmaker Terry C Carney Sr of Platinum Golden West… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.