McSween broke barriers as one of the first Black agents at New York Life in the 1950s and used his financial success not for personal acclaim, but to support causes focused on economic justice and racial equality. Less widely known is McSween’s role as a bridge between Panama and the United States during a critical period in the country’s history. Born in Panama in 1926, McSween rose from modest beginnings to become a pioneering businessman, a behind-the-scenes financier of the U.S. civil rights movement, and a trusted figure in conversations that helped shape Panama’s modern sovereignty. For Panama, the film is a reminder that the fight for sovereignty and dignity was supported not only by visible leaders, but also by Panamanians abroad who leveraged influence, relationships, and resources to shape the nation’s future. McSween’s story belongs not just to civil rights history, but to Panama’s story — and thanks to this film, it is finally being told. McSween was part of a small circle of advisers and advocates who supported dialogue around Panama’s right to self-determination, contributing to the political momentum that ultimately led to the Torrijos-Carter Treaties and the return of the Panama Canal to Panamanian control. The documentary, directed by Justin O. Cooper and narrated by Grammy Award–winning artist Ann Nesby, has garnered significant recognition on the international film festival circuit. "CIRILO: A Legacy Untold" has earned multiple festival accolades and, most notably, a NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Short Form Documentary— a powerful acknowledgment of both the film’s quality and the importance of McSween’s legacy. "CIRILO: A Legacy Untold" does more than recover a forgotten name. His story is now being told through the award-winning documentary short "CIRILO: A Legacy Untold." As someone who came of age during the civil rights era, it is striking — and humbling — to only now be learning about a man who quietly helped fund the movement alongside leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rev. Jesse Jackson. For many people, the name Cirilo McSween is unfamiliar — which is surprising, given the scope of his influence. He maintained close ties with Panamanian leadership and developed a respected relationship with Martín Torrijos, who would later become President of Panama. It challenges how history is remembered and who is allowed to occupy its center. The 57th NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast live on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT on BET.
