THE CONVERSATION: A series of short films about race in America
by Michèle Stephenson
When it comes to race relations in America, there has been no shortage of rhetoric, rage and accusations, but too few attempts have been made to elevate the conversation beyond superficial remarks. Comprised of shorts, The Conversation Series avoids a single narrative, with each piece exploring a different facet of societal perceptions that provide honest and surprising insight into the reality of our social systems.
FIRST LIGHT
by Adam Mazo & Ben Pender-Cudlip
Courtesy: Upstander Project
First Light documents the Maine Wabanaki-State Child Welfare Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the first such task force in US history to investigate issues important to Native Americans. The Commission was dedicated to uncovering and acknowledging the truth about what happened to Wabanaki children and families involved with the state's child welfare system.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/140817010
LAST DAY OF FREEDOM
by Dee Hibbert-Jones & Nomi Talisman
Last Day of Freedom, is a richly animated personal narrative, and tells the story of Bill Babbitt’s decision to stand by his brother in the face of war, crime and capital punishment. The film is a portrait of a man at the nexus of the most pressing social issues of our day – veterans’ care, mental health access and criminal justice.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/49610192