“OASIS in Atlanta” Documentary Narrates Christian Impact of the Civil Rights Movement in Atlanta
Author and Director Bob Shands reveals untapped historical angles in his first documentary produced by RedRiver Media
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (July 21, 2025) – The Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s marked the most notable social event in our modern timeline aimed at eradicating the disenfranchisement of African Americans across the country. But one critical narrative was left out of the mainstream discussion, according to Bob Shands, Atlanta, Georgia native and author of the book In My Father’s House: Lessons Learned in the Home of a Civil Rights Pioneer.
In his first documentary as executive director, Shands shares the story of how – and why – Atlanta avoided much of the turbulence that severely impacted the Southern U.S. during the Civil Rights movement.
“Most people are aware of the work of ministers in the movement: The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr; Rev. Ralph David Abernathy, Sr; Rev. Andrew Young; Rev. Jesse Jackson; Rev. Joseph Lowery and others. Most, however, are unaware of the cooperation that existed in Atlanta between both black and white ministers,” says Shands.
His book, In My Father’s House: Lessons Learned in the Home of a Civil Rights Pioneer, Shands narrates the life of his father Norman Shands, who was a Southern Baptist minister living in Atlanta. The book chronicles the events of the Civil Rights era in parallel to the actions of white ministers who preached to oppose racism and prejudice. According to Shands, these Christian leaders “risked life, limb and career” to do so.
Shands, through the release of this documentary, intends to echo these efforts and shed light on the impact of white Southern ministers whose contributions were largely lost to the conventionally recognized narrative of the Civil Rights Movement.
“This documentary means so many things to me. The thing that stands out is the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ through the efforts of this amazing team of like minded, Christian partners. I believe this documentary will change paradigms,” says Shands.
Janelle and Kevin Batts of Texas-based RedRiver Media serve as executive producers of the documentary, making it the production firm’s sixth film released since its founding 10 years ago. The documentary is produced in association with Paris Campaigns & Creative of Tennessee.
“The anticipation we have felt about this film has been electric from the very beginning. We know it will not only provoke belief systems and thought, but it will send a message of unity. Though it is an old story from the past, it has the power to alter our present and our future,” says RedRiver Media co-founder Janelle Batts.
The documentary is anticipated to release in January 2026 made possible by community support, creative contributions and prayers. The first trailer can be viewed at www.bobshands.com/oasis
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