Dear Hector, Love, Ivan: A Hector Black Documentary
with Paul Marino & Chad Herschberger, Filmmakers
Oct. 7 | 5 p.m.
Bell Hall Auditorium
'Dear Hector, Love Ivan' is a documentary that examines the transformative power of forgiveness through the extraordinary 17-year correspondence between Hector Black and Ivan Simpson, the man serving life without parole for the murder of Hector's adopted daughter. At this point in his life, Hector was living in the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee, and his letters, now preserved in the Tennessee Tech Archives, became the foundation for the film's narrative. The producers relied heavily on these archival materials to shape the storyline, underscoring the vital role of local history and archival preservation in telling stories that matter.
What begins as an expression of grief evolves into a profound dialogue on remorse, justice, and human dignity. The film situates Hector's radical choice within the context of his experiences as a World War II soldier, civil rights advocate, and Quaker, revealing how empathy and moral courage can emerge from tragedy.