MMP News

Remembering Jonis Davis – Beacon Hill Meaningful Movies

by Anne Miller November 14, 2022 1

The Meaningful Movies network of volunteers remember our dear friend Jonis Davis who passed away on November 8th. MMP would not exist if it weren’t for incredible volunteers like Jonis who donated her time to organizing events because she understood that social justice documentary film can be a powerful way to educate communities about important issues, spark thoughtful conversations and move people to action. The question that is really being asked at every Meaningful Movies event is “How can we love each other better?” – not just our neighbors, friends and families but also people on the other side of the country, and on the other side of the world. Jonis -like all Meaningful Movies volunteers – was a community organizer who helped her neighbors, neighborhood and our larger community to think deeply about the ways in which we can collectively support peace and justice for all people. Jonis really did work hard to spread love in the world – in so many ways – and she will be dearly missed. Below is a tribute to Jonis from her co-leader at the Beacon Hill Meaningful Movies, Christina Olson.

I first met Jonis Davis at a meeting of the Beacon Hill Council at the library.  I presented my proposal to start a chapter of Meaningful Movies on the Hill and, as  part of a grant requirement, I was required to present my idea and ask for local support. 

Often discussion of ideas, good and bad, devolved into listening to opinions of some of the regulars (pale males of a certain age and stature) on any number of topics.  They regularly did not raise a hand when asked to volunteer and I expected much of the same.  After the meeting I was introduced to Jonis who brightly exclaimed she liked the idea and when invited to help, readily agreed. 

Thus began a five-year collaboration presenting compelling documentaries followed by discussion circles often with activist guests.  Jonis excelled at moderating these discussions, and in connecting us to activists.  No matter the film topic Jonis knew a local who could join us.  Our success wouldn’t have been as grand without her help.  She opened her home for our steering committee meetings, and it was lovely to sit around her big round table enjoying good food and fellowship while choosing films. 

Jonis was generous, kind and wise.   

Christina Olson, Beacon Hill Meaningful Movies