"My Friend Mickey: Common Decency and the American Dream" Film Screening

The first film explores Indiana history through the life of Hoosier Michael S. Maurer, known to most as “Mickey.” KVML CEO Julia Whitehead, who has known Mickey for several years, shares the Maurer family’s fascinating story on screen. From Russian immigrant Morris Maurer fleeing religious persecution to start a better life in America to the efforts Mickey has taken to raise awareness of injustices including those suffered by minority communities, the story tells how Mickey and his wife Janie created a family 17 individuals strong while leading busy lives.

Mickey is known for establishing the National Bank of Indianapolis and Mickey’s Camp, purchasing and writing for the Indianapolis Business Journal, publishing the book that highlighted the scandal that brought down the University of Louisville basketball program, and more. The film examines Mickey’s childhood, helping his father (who was a World War ll veteran) with the family’s junkyard business and Mickey’s role as a successful entrepreneur and generous philanthropist.