William Kunstler: Disturbing the Universe

In the early part of the 20th century, William Kunstler established himself as a lawyer with a steady practice in estate and divorce law. Despite this success, Kunstler felt a growing discontent with the conventional legal profession and societal issues surrounding him.

In the 1960s, Kunstler made a pivotal decision to leave his suburban lifestyle and immerse himself in the civil rights movement. His actions positioned him as a key figure advocating for marginalized groups and fighting systemic injustices.

Kunstler gained international recognition when he defended the Chicago 8, a group charged with inciting riots during the tumultuous 1968 Democratic National Convention. This trial became a crucial moment, highlighting the tensions around the Vietnam War and civil rights.

During the Chicago 8 trial, Kunstler audaciously challenged the judicial system, emphasizing the role of the law in maintaining power. His statements, such as that the legal system led many to their deaths, encapsulated his evolving philosophy on justice.

In 1971, Kunstler went to Attica Prison to observe a rebellion by inmates demanding better conditions. The violent state response resulted in significant casualties, shaping Kunstler’s understanding of law as a tool for oppression rather than liberation.

As Kunstler took on high-profile cases, his reputation grew, but he also faced scrutiny for defending controversial figures, including a Renaissance to an Islamic fundamentalist. This period marked a shift in his public perception from hero to a polarizing figure.

While navigating his controversial legal career, Kunstler also faced challenges as a father. His daughters, Emily and Sarah, were concerned about his reputation, leading them to intervene when he chose to defend defendants like Yusef Salaam.

Kunstler's decision to defend Yusef Salaam, a black teenager wrongfully accused of gang rape, placed him under intense media scrutiny. Initially branded a monster, the narrative shifted years later when DNA evidence exonerated Salaam, restoring his name.

When Native Americans faced federal authority during the occupation at Wounded Knee, they sought Kunstler's expertise in legal defense. This incident further highlighted Kunstler's commitment to defending marginalized communities against systemic oppression.

Kunstler's experiences in various landmark trials led to a critical reflection on the law's role in society. He started viewing legal proceedings not just as fights for justice, but also as arenas where powerful interests maintained control.

William Kunstler passed away in 1995, leaving behind a complex legacy that his daughters sought to understand. They grappled with the dichotomy between the revered figure they knew and the controversial lawyer he became, leading to a broader discussion on his impact.

In an effort to reconcile their father's legacy with their personal experiences, Emily and Sarah Kunstler created the documentary *Disturbing the Universe*. This film aimed to present an honest portrayal of their father's life, encompassing both his achievements and failings.

The documentary emphasizes the themes of justice vs. legality, drawing from Kunstler's own words during trials about the role of law in perpetuating tyranny. It reflects on how Kunstler's advocacy for marginalized individuals often put him at odds with prevailing societal views.