CEI Documentary - Dear Mr. President: The Letters of Julia Sand:

The documentary tells the story of America’s 21st president, Chester Arthur, who, following the assassination of President James Garfield in 1881, was faced with the daunting task of becoming president. Arthur faced backlash for being a beneficiary of the spoils system, which secured corrupt appointments for government jobs. He was even suspected by many of being part of the plot to kill President Garfield.

This incredible subject matter has garnered renewed attention thanks to the recent Netflix limited series, Death by Lighting. Audiences will be especially intrigued to discover the rest of the incredible true story that took place afterward, revealed in CEI’s film.

Arthur had not only supported the spoils system but owed his entire career in government to the corruption of the New York political machine. No one expected anything different from Arthur’s presidency - except for one person. A New Yorker named Julia Sand believed Arthur could become something better and began writing to the new president. Through 23 letters, Sand implored Arthur to forgo his corrupt machinations, become the leader the country deserved, and champion Civil Service Reform.

 “We’re excited to finally bring our award-winning film to a broader audience,” filmmaker Destry Edwards said. “President Chester Arthur's reforms would not have happened without the influence of Julia Sand. And with Death by Lightning focused on the tragic assassination, Dear Mr. President: the Letters of Julia Sand remains the only film through which people can learn about the inspiring events that followed.”

More on Dear Mr. President: The Letters of Julia Sand:

·         Watch the YouTube trailer for the film here.

·         Information about the film and its amazing story may be found here.

·         Read Julia Sand’s letters on CEI.org.

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