By the time this issue hits newsstands, many readers will have had an opportunity to see the film Selma. But if you haven’t, RUN—don’t walk—to the nearest theater. I assure you, all the positive buzz you’ve heard or read is true. The movie is cinematically stunning. It is a fair and brilliantly depicted story. Our talented cover stars, David Oyelowo, Carmen Ejogo and Oprah Winfrey, all brought their absolute bests to the project and it shows. To quote my dynamic managing editor, Wendy L. Wilson, who just so happens to be the writer of our cover story, “There was not a single gratuitous scene. Every moment of the movie was worthwhile.”

Today, as we stand in the midst of what seems like a sudden swell of incessant brutalization of people of color in this country, the film is a poignant reminder of how much selfless work was done to obtain the basic civil rights that many now take for granted. Additionally, it conveys the importance of every citizen engaging in the fight for justice. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience both social and financial freedom.

Read more in the February issue of EBONY Magazine.