The History Film Forum at the National Museum of American History, American Experience PBS, and the National Air and Space Museum present Fly With Me. This new documentary from Sarah Colt and Helen Dobrowski tells the story of the pioneering young women who became flight attendants at a time when single women were unable to order a drink, eat alone in a restaurant, own a credit card or get a prescription for birth control. Becoming a “stewardess,” as they were called, offered unheard-of opportunities for travel, glamour, adventure, and independence. Although maligned as feminist sellouts, these women were on the frontlines of the battle to assert gender equality and transform the workplace. Featuring firsthand accounts, personal stories and a rich archival record, the film tells the lively and important but neglected history of the women who changed the world while flying it. 

The program will include an extended preview of the film and a post-screening discussion.

Fly With Me premieres on PBS February 20 at 9/8c.

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Panelists:
Helen Ryan Dobrowski (director and producer) has worked with Sarah Colt for over a decade, most recently producing Billy Graham for American Experience, which premiered in May 2021. Her previous projects for the series include The Gilded Age, Walt Disney, Henry Ford, episodes three and four of God in America, and The Polio Crusade.

Casey Grant became one of Delta’s first African American flight attendants in 1971, working for the airline for 35 years. She hosts a radio show and writes books about African American pioneers in aviation.

Patricia Ireland attended law school while working as a flight attendant at Pan Am. After seven years with Pan Am, she began her legal career. In 1991, she became president of the National Organization for Women (NOW).

Cameo George (moderator) is a producer, writer and journalist with more than 20 years of experience in documentary, broadcast television and digital content production. She is the Executive Producer of American Experience.
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The National Museum of American History welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities. This event is wheelchair accessible. ASL services, captioning, and assistive listening devices will be provided. Additional accommodations are available upon request; please email nmahprograms@si.edu. Two weeks’ notice is preferred.

Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Registration link coming soon. Seating will be opened first to Eventbrite-registered attendees and then to walk-in visitors. When we reach maximum capacity, the event will be closed to the public.

Photo from Fly With Me, circa 1970, courtesy of San Diego Air & Space Museum.