Ferguson Rises

Ferguson Rises opens with poet Maya Angelou’s words, History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived; but if faced with courage, need not be lived again. Mobolaji Olambiwonnu's documentary recalls tragic events, but its main purpose is to offer hope. In reviewing the 2014 shooting of a black teenager by a white law enforcement officer in Ferguson, one of many such deaths in the United States, the director focuses on the ensuing protests by the local community. Archival footage shows crowds in the streets waving banners, chanting and facing the police. With time, angry tones give way to emotion and pathos as we witness the strength and popularity of the Black Lives Matter movement fighting for a better, more secure future for Black people.

Audience award nominated film. Please pick up a voting card on entering the screening and tear in a place marking your opinion and throw it into an assigned box after the screening (cards and boxes will be available at the theaters). The filmmakers have a chance of winning $5,000 sponsored by BNY Mellon, Poland.