Documentary Spotlights Black Women Embracing Firearm Safety

Javondlynn M. Dunagan, the subject of Scott's documentary, is a distinguished figure in firearm and safety education. Based in Chicago, Dunagan is the founder and CEO of JMD Defense, LLC. Her journey to becoming a prominent firearm advocate followed a notable 25-year career as a United States Probation Officer, from which she retired in January 2016. Dunagan holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Hampton University and a Master's degree in Social Work Administration from the University of Chicago. She is also a Certified Firearm's Instructor, Range Safety Officer, and a Distinguished Expert Shooter with the NRA Marksmanship Program.

Dunagan's personal transformation into a firearm enthusiast began in 2013, following her divorce. Despite her extensive career in law enforcement, she initially harbored a fear of guns. Feeling a strong need for personal protection, she decided to confront this fear head-on by taking firearm classes, a process during which she reportedly "fell in love with firearms." This personal experience led her to establish JMD Defense & Investigations LLC in March 2017, and shortly thereafter, she founded the Ladies of Steel Gun Club. The club was born from Dunagan's observation that she "never saw other Black women by themselves shooting or even in a group" at gun ranges, recognizing a clear need for a supportive community.

Scott's filmmaking approach, shaped by her social work background, emphasizes patience and allowing her subjects to express themselves authentically. She stated that she incorporated cinema vérité and expository mode through traditional sit-down interviews. Scott recounted realizing the profound impact of Dunagan's work during their conversations, noting, "That is when I realized that Javondlynn Dunagan was a big deal, and I mean a big deal in the sense that she was impacting lives. I knew then that I could really make a meaningful documentary." The film, through its intimate portrayal, showcases a "quiet revolution" where fear is replaced by sisterhood, and firearm instruction becomes a safe and affirming experience.

Dunagan's vision extends beyond individual empowerment; she expresses a commitment to changing the relationship between the police and the Black community and addressing issues of accountability regarding Black-on-Black crime. She believes that members of the gun club can model responsible firearm ownership, contributing positively to these critical discussions. Her dedication has earned her recognition and awards for empowering women in safety education and responsible firearm ownership, and she has been featured across various media outlets.

The story of the Ladies of Steel is particularly timely, aligning with a broader trend in the United States. Reports indicate that Black women are currently the fastest-growing demographic of gun owners. This surge is attributed to a confluence of factors, including heightened violence experienced after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the social justice movement of 2020, and a growing emphasis on self-defense. This focus on self-protection is especially relevant given the disproportionately higher rates of domestic partner violence and murders that Black women face. Jessica Scott's documentary thus captures a significant cultural and social shift within the Black community, providing an intimate look at the motivations and impact of this evolving narrative.

"Ladies of Steel" offers a vital look into a movement that is redefining empowerment and safety for Black women, showcasing how a personal journey can inspire a national network dedicated to education and mutual support. The film underscores how individuals like Dunagan are fostering community and challenging perceptions, one firearm safety class at a time.