Film Independent’s Fiscal Sponsorship program opens the door to nonprofit funding for independent filmmakers and media artists. Donate today and help bring Cirilo, A Legacy Untold to life.
 

Logline

Born into poverty in Panama, Cirilo McSween defies the systemic racism of Jim Crow America to pursue the American Dream. As an entrepreneur and civil rights activist, he battles prejudice and inequality to become a transformative figure in the histories of Panama and Chicago, inspiring generations across the Americas.

Synopsis

Cirilo, A Legacy Untold unravels the extraordinary story of Cirilo McSween, a trailblazing entrepreneur and civil rights activist whose legacy bridges continents and generations. Born into poverty in Panama, McSween migrated to the United States during the 1950s, chasing the American Dream amid the systemic racism of the Jim Crow era. Through rare archival footage of McSween speaking in his own voice and interviews with Blanton Canady, Rev. Janette Wilson, and Jeanette Simpson, the film chronicles his rise from a determined track star to a history-making insurance executive, McDonald’s franchisee, and a key figure in civil rights alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Harold Washington.

McSween’s journey is more than a rags-to-riches tale; it is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and activism to break barriers and uplift communities. From shaping Chicago’s political and business history to honoring his cultural roots in Panama, McSween’s legacy continues to inspire across the Americas.
 

Meet the Filmmaker

Justin O. Cooper – Director/Producer
Justin O. Cooper is the CEO of JOCMedia & Entertainment, a versatile director, producer, writer, and editor with a talent for compelling storytelling. His career began in human interest and lifestyle journalism, later evolving into expertise in international film production. As a consultant for The Royal Film Commission-Jordan, Cooper has played a pivotal role in attracting major Hollywood productions to the Kingdom of Jordan, contributing to projects such as Aladdin (Walt Disney Studios), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (Lucasfilm Ltd.), Dune (Legendary Entertainment), and SEAL Team (Paramount+).

In addition to consulting, Cooper produces and edits national TV commercials for Fortune 100 company New York Life Insurance. His earlier experience as a film liaison at Southern Regional Medical Center in Metro Atlanta saw him managing on-location logistics for notable productions like What to Expect When You’re Expecting, Ride Along, Project Almanac, and Being Mary Jane. This foundation in coordinating complex productions cemented his expertise in physical production.

Listed on the Industry Experience Roster with IATSE Local #700 (Motion Picture Editors Guild) as an Assistant Editor, Cooper also develops unscripted and scripted TV series through JOCMedia. He holds certifications in Film and Television Development and has a specialization in Film Editing from UCLA Extension. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Benedict College.

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Contact

For inquiries, please contact fiscalsponsorship@filmindependent.org.