Sapiro v. Ford: the Jew Who Sued Henry Ford

Sapiro v. Ford: the Jew Who Sued Henry Ford

Sapiro v. Ford tells the riveting true story of Aaron Sapiro, a young Jewish lawyer who took on one of America’s most powerful men—and most notorious antisemite—Henry Ford. In the 1920s, as Ford’s anti-Jewish publications incited hatred across the nation, Sapiro filed an unprecedented libel suit, challenging the limits of hate speech long before such laws existed.

From his humble beginnings as an orphan in San Francisco to leading a nationwide movement empowering farmers, Sapiro’s life was a testament to courage, vision, and justice. Portrayed by actor Ben Shenkman, Sapiro’s words are presented in their entirety, filmed as if speaking directly to a modern audience. At the same time, historical experts illuminate the stakes of his confrontation with Ford.

In a David-versus-Goliath showdown, Sapiro forced the industrial titan to back down, issue an apology, and shutter his hate-filled newspaper, leaving a legacy that resonates today. As antisemitism rises and the struggle to balance free speech with protection against hate continues, Sapiro v. Ford examines the enduring question: how can societies confront power, prejudice, and propaganda while upholding justice?

Q&A with Director Gaylen Ross following all screenings.