ST. LOUIS — Since 2014, the St. Louis International Film Festival's Race in America Spotlight has reflected the frustrations of Black Americans in response to the events in Ferguson. While this mission continues, the Spotlight will also draw attention to building community, cultivating conversation, and creating a platform for change.
Emmett Williams is the Guest Programmer for the 2023 Race In America Spotlight.
"I want to program films where people feel like they can have change and also have change in their hands and make a difference in their own lives, which impacts the entire community," Williams said.
The St. Louis International Film Festival’s Race in America programming is designed to inspire our community. The 16 films curated by Williams focus on the Black Experience in the United States and many include a focus on St. Louis.
"There's Bike Vessel, which is a film showing this Saturday at 1:00pm, which is about how the Black community just doesn't trust the US health industry. The 7:00pm film is like Black Barbie about the history of black Barbie's starting in 1980," Williams said.
There's also Razing Liberty Square which is a documentary that dives into the issue of climate gentrification.
Beyond the films, the Spotlight includes panel discussions, voter registration booths and community events.
Perhaps the best part? all of the programs are offered for free thanks to support from the Trio Foundation of St. Louis.
"I'm going to be moderating panels after almost every film. So you get to, like, really know the filmmakers and you really get to know your community. So, if you care about St Louis, this should be a program that you come see," Williams explained.
The Race in America Spotlight films will be screening at Washington University’s Brown Auditorium. For schedules and tickets, visit cinemeastlouis.org.
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