Consent is the cornerstone of any loving, romantic relationship, but what happens when one party is unable to communicate their approval?
Tell Them You Love Me, a recently released true crime documentary, delves into the complex themes of consent, racism, and ableism in the case against former professor and disability advocate Anna Stubblefield and her student, Derrick Johnson.
Anna Stubblefield, originally Marjorie Anna McClenne, grew up in Plymouth, Michigan, with a passion for special education and racial justice. Her career led her to become a prominent figure in Africana philosophy and a respected professor at Rutgers University. However, her involvement with DJ, a non-verbal Black man with severe disabilities, took a dark turn when a supposed romantic relationship between them was brought to light.
Despite Anna’s claims of a consensual relationship with DJ through facilitated communication, the court ruled against her. In 2015, she was found guilty of aggravated sexual assault and sentenced to 12 years in prison. Although she was released after serving two years and her family life was shattered by the scandal, DJ and his family received $4 million in a civil lawsuit against her.
The true crime documentary Tell Them You Love Me, now streaming on Netflix, sheds light on this controversial case. Directed by Nick August-Perna and executive produced by Louis Theroux, the film explores the power dynamics, race, and disabilities at play in the relationship between Anna and DJ. Viewers in the US can also rent or buy the film on Apple TV, while UK viewers can watch it on Sky Stream, Netflix, or Disney+.
The documentary does not feature any interviews with Derrick Johnson, who has been unable to communicate his side of the story. Despite the legal actions taken against Anna Stubblefield, the impact of her actions on DJ and his family continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of consent, respect, and justice in all relationships.
