For a long time, the place of entertainment in public debate has been a point of contention. This has left viewers with limited options to engage with more moderate and balanced opinions, creating a gap between essential information and mass appeal. The creators of Staunch Moderates understand this challenge and have adopted a unique approach. They use music and cinema to create content that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. By emphasizing moderation and common ground, they counterbalance the excesses often seen in today's media and entertainment. The Movement's founder, Gregory T. Simmons, has successfully created a new approach to address the crises of polarization and division through music and filmed entertainment, firmly believing that the success of Staunch Moderates and similar organizations is crucial for the sustainability of the human race.
For instance, since its founding in 2019, Staunch Moderates has focused on artistic expression through Staunch Moderates Studios rather than traditional advocacy. Their entertainment division has produced numerous music videos, a feature-length documentary chronicling their journey and purpose, and three multi-genre hip-hop albums: The First Realm, Mission Peace, and 2023. The core of their artistic production is the band DJ Staunch and The Bigfoots. Their eight-foot-tall bigfoot mascot, "DJ Staunch," gives their shows and films a distinctive and captivating visual identity.
Collaboration with Chicago Recording Company and renowned musicians like Jeff “Skunk” Baxter and CJ Vanston has enabled Staunch Moderates to produce quality music with a message of moderation and peace. Their albums and songs have gained significant online popularity and received many award considerations. This unique blend of music and message has set them apart and attracted a wide audience.
Take, for example, the band's music videos. They not only showcase their musical talent but also convey important messages in a visually appealing way. The feature-length documentary further delves into their creative process and ideology, providing a deeper understanding of the movement. It has been shown to a broader audience through theater showings and prominent billboards in places like Times Square and Los Angeles.
Staunch Moderates has delved into cinema with their documentary Mission Peace. This full-length video captures their creative process and ideology while chronicling the movement's beginnings and the first year's effects. Its widespread popularity has helped establish Staunch Moderates as a critical and socially aware content producer in the entertainment industry. The availability of the film on demand on platforms like Apple TV and Amazon has further expanded its potential audience.
For instance, the documentary showcases the behind-the-scenes efforts of the Staunch Moderates team and how they use film to make a positive impact. It inspires viewers to think about important issues and encourages them to embrace moderation and peace.
The movement continues to expand the reach of their message into education with "The Staunch Moderates Experience." This eight-time award-winning film, along with a philosophy and debate-focused academic course, aims to engage high schools, colleges, and institutions nationwide. By combining entertainment with education in a novel and captivating manner, the program features spectacular performances by rappers Casanova Ace, Shorty Mack, Kyle Knight, and "DJ Staunch and The Bigfoots," supported by a dance crew.
This unique approach to education through entertainment helps students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of important social issues. It shows that entertainment can be a powerful tool for education and social change.
The fact that Staunch Moderate's output has received over 200 million views and streams on digital and social media platforms clearly demonstrates the need for such content. They intend to keep growing by launching fresh artistic endeavors, giving live performances, and launching educational programs in the name of peace and moderation. Simmons concludes, "We're coming soon to a venue near you!" This shows their determination to make a lasting impact and become a cultural phenomenon.
With their innovative approach and continued growth, Staunch Moderates is set to leave a significant mark on the entertainment and social landscape. Their work serves as a reminder that art can be a powerful force for good and that we can all play a role in creating a more harmonious and moderate world.