There Is Still Good in the World: Amy Goodman

Written By: Maria Victoria Almarza

First-Person Experience

(Francesco Tarini/Unsplash)

Apr. 1, 2026

MIAMI – “We bring out the voices of people closest to the story” Amy Goodman told a bustling room of media students. We fervently wrote down every word, looking to the small, gray-haired woman for wisdom and guidance. Despite her long list of journalistic achievements and her success as founder of Democracy Now!, she spoke to us as though we were her peers. In just thirty minutes, Amy Goodman restored my dwindling hope, and I hope to share that feeling with you.

The brief Q&A followed a screening of her new film, Seal This Story, Please!. It centers Goodman’s story, revealing both her complexity and tenacity. I cried many times, while watching her risk her life to reach the people closest to the story. I was most impacted by her experience in East Timor. She was beaten by Indonesian soldiers after witnessing the Dili Massacre, despite carrying documentation clearly identifying her as a member of the press. That day, Goodman and her co-worker barely escaped death. 

(Levi Meir Clancy/Unsplash)

When they returned to the United States, they shared the tragedy of the massacre nation-wide, using their abuse to expose the cruelty of the soldiers. Yet, instead of outrage and protection, she was met with government indifference. Still, she persisted and advocated for justice for the Timorese people. Putting myself in her shoes, I cannot fathom the pain and strength that must have required. Moreover the courage to continue diving into harm’s way to give a voice to the silenced. 

I asked Ms. Goodman how she was able to do this, and how I might be able to do so as well. She told me two things: first, get a lawyer; second, believe that it is all for a higher purpose. She is Jewish, but I do not think this was necessarily a religious statement. A higher purpose can be found in God, humanity, loved ones and even ideals. For me, I find that higher purpose in justice. 

Amy Goodman taught me many things, but most importantly, she brought me back to my very essence. Thank you, Ms. Goodman!