Last week, the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI) showcased its documentary “Dear Mr. President: The Letters of Julia Sand” at FreedomFest’s Anthem Film Festival in Palm Springs, California. The film received the Best Documentary Feature award and was recognized for its energy, compelling interviews, and inspiring subject matter.
The documentary explores how an ordinary citizen influenced the presidency of Chester Arthur, shifting his legacy from corruption to reform.
“It was an incredible honor to screen Dear Mr. President: the Letters of Julia Sand alongside so many fantastic films at the 2025 Anthem Film Festival – and I’m deeply grateful for the film being awarded Best Documentary Feature,” said CEI’s Destry Edwards, who directed the film.
Edwards added, “The story of Chester Arthur and Julia Sand is such an inspirational narrative, and Julia’s legacy encourages us to seek out our own ways to make a difference in our government and in our community. It’s very special to see this film bring more public awareness to this story.”
“Dear Mr. President: The Letters of Julia Sand” is available for streaming on SalemNow. More information about the film can be found at CEI.org. For those interested in organizing a screening, contact [email protected].













