4000 Days documentary screening

The University of Maine’s Hazing Prevention Research Lab (HPRL) and StopHazing will host an exclusive, free screening of the documentary 4000 Days, with filmmaker Daniel Catullo and executive producers Julie and Gary DeVercelly, on Tuesday Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. in DP Corbett 100.

The film chronicles the public struggle of three families whose personal tragedies become part of a nationwide movement for change — and the center of a push for legislative reform around the dangers of hazing. After losing their sons to fraternity hazing, the families begin a relentless public fight that resulted in the passage of the federal Stop Campus Hazing Act.

4000 Days captures their journey — the title representing the number of days it took to turn grief into action, then grief into law. From intimate personal moments to painful court appearances, the film tells a story not just about loss, but also one of resilience, undying determination and the power of ordinary people to turn tragedy into lasting impact.

University of Maine Professor of Higher Education Elizabeth Allan, a leading expert on hazing and hazing prevention in higher education, and UMaine alumna Meredith Stewart will also be on hand for the screening. Allan is director and principal of the HPRL at UMaine, as well as principal and founder of the research group StopHazing. Stewart is StopHazing’s director of strategy and operations. Both consulted with lawmakers and congressional staff during the crafting of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, and appear throughout the film.

Julie and Gary DeVercelly, who lost their son Gary Jr. to hazing and who will be at the screening, are longtime supporters of UMaine and Allan’s work.

The screening is being held during National Hazing Awareness Week (Sept. 21-25). A second screening may be added on Sept. 23, if needed. There is no cost to attend.

Watch the trailer for the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_s-QrfwRixM