Participatory budgeting gives ordinary people direct say over local public projects and monies. Employed by cities in Latin America and Europe, Chicago's 49th Ward was the first jurisdiction in the U.S. to embrace this innovative experiment in direct democracy. Filmed during the very first year of participatory budgeting, "Democracy in Action" follows community members pitch ideas, team up with others and craft proposals for infrastructure projects – such as street and sidewalk repairs, bike lanes, and dog parks – and then invite the community to vote. The outcome was truly "democracy in action" and has continued for several years now. Director/Producer/Cinematographer: Ines Sommer. sommerfilmworks.com
