Insurer underwrites PBS special on Angelou

American Family Insurance didn't need to worry about risk with its latest venture: It was underwriting an American icon.

The insurer provided financial support to PBS's recent broadcast of American Masters: Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise, a film that examines the writer’s work and life in the context of significant historical, cultural and artistic events.

“Her work has become a global symbol of peace, humility and freedom,” American Family said on its website.

Jim St. Vincent, vice president of Human Resources at American Family Insurance, said the film has the power to change our mindsets.

“Viewers of this film will not only appreciate the powerful insights from Maya Angelou but become more mindful of how we relate to others,” he said. “Awareness is an important first step, and we recognize that an inclusive culture - inside and outside the workplace - has a positive effect on relationships with our customers, co-workers and communities.”

Angelou was an American poet, author and civil rights advocate who won a Pulitzer Prize for her autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” The film features interviews with Angelou as well as Oprah Winfrey, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Common, Alfre Woodard and many other celebrities.

The film is available for streaming from the PBS website.