Celebrating Percy Green’s fearless activism and his enduring impact on civil rights.
In the annals of civil rights history, few figures stand as tall—both literally and figuratively—as Percy Green. Known for his audacious 1964 climb of the unfinished Gateway Arch in St. Louis to protest discriminatory hiring practices, Green’s legacy is one of creativity, courage, and relentless advocacy for equality. Now, over six decades later, Nine PBS is bringing his story to life in a new documentary, Percy Green: Man of ACTION, premiering October 27.
A Life of Activism
Percy Green’s journey as a civil rights activist began in the heart of St. Louis, where he co-founded the Action Committee to Improve Opportunities for Negroes (ACTION). His mission was clear: to challenge systemic racism and fight for equal access to jobs and opportunities. The documentary delves into Green’s early activism, his role in founding ACTION, and the innovative tactics he employed to draw attention to injustice.
The film’s director and producer, Joseph Puleo, highlights Green’s unique approach to activism. “He was thinking in more creative ways than anyone else during the civil rights movement,” said Richard Daly, who famously joined Green in scaling the Arch. This creativity, combined with an unwavering commitment to justice, made Green a formidable force in the fight for civil rights.
The Iconic Arch Climb
The 1964 Gateway Arch climb remains one of the most iconic moments in Green’s career. At a time when the Arch was still under construction, Green and Daly scaled its side to protest the lack of Black workers on the project. This bold act of civil disobedience captured national attention and became a symbol of the broader struggle for equality.
The documentary revisits this historic event, including a poignant return to the Arch on its 60th anniversary. Despite sweltering heat, the now 90-year-old Green insisted on continuing the shoot, embodying the same determination that defined his activism decades ago.
A Treasure Trove of History
One of the film’s unique elements is its use of Green’s 1970s book, Why You Must Raise Hell. This scrapbook, meticulously compiled by Green, chronicles every mention of him and ACTION in local and national newspapers. Puleo used this treasure trove of history to uncover archival footage and create animations that bring Green’s story to life.
The documentary also features interviews with those who knew Green during his ACTION days, offering personal insights into his character and impact. “Percy was incredibly soft-spoken, affable, and a delight to be around,” Puleo shared. These interviews, combined with Green’s own six-hour sit-down, paint a vivid picture of a man whose dedication to justice never wavered.
Honoring a Legacy
For Nine PBS, telling Percy Green’s story is a continuation of their mission to share the stories that shape the St. Louis community. “Percy Green’s legacy is not just about the Arch climb—it’s about courage, persistence, and the ongoing fight for equality,” said Aja Williams, Vice President and Chief Content Officer at Nine PBS. The documentary ensures that future generations understand the profound impact Green had on St. Louis and beyond.
Premiere and Preview Events
Percy Green: Man of ACTION premieres on October 27 on Nine PBS, the PBS app, and ninepbs.org. For those eager to experience the film early, preview screenings will be held on October 7 at the Hi-Pointe Theater and October 25 in Kiener Plaza. These events offer a chance to celebrate Green’s legacy and reflect on the enduring relevance of his work.
A Timely Reminder
In a time when the fight for equality continues, Percy Green’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of courage, creativity, and persistence. Whether scaling the Arch or compiling a scrapbook of activism, Green’s actions have left an indelible mark on St. Louis and the nation.
As Puleo aptly put it, “Whether you agree with his tactics or not, the sacrifices Percy made for what he believed in are remarkable. He deserves respect for that level of dedication.” Percy Green: Man of ACTION is not just a documentary—it’s a tribute to a man who dared to raise hell for justice.
