Free educational film reveals silent epidemic and includes live community discussion
Flint, Mich. – Communities First, Inc. (CFI) is excited to share the 9th Annual African American Film Series is continuing in 2024. As always, the film was selected to highlight the work of African American creatives as well as inspire, inform, empower and entertain the participants. This series marks the organization’s ninth time bringing this free, educational program to the Flint community.
The third film in the series, “Drowning in Silence,” took place on January 11, 2024, and was shown in-person at the Flint Institute of Arts (1120 E Kearsley St, Flint, MI 48503).
The film, Drowning in Silence, follows a mother as she takes a transformative journey after losing her son to the silent epidemic of childhood drowning. She goes on a quest for answers and ways to make a difference in the midst of tragedy.
“The series allows us to showcase unique films and allows us to amplify voices of the community and to make sure their stories are heard through film,” says Glenn Wilson, president and CEO of Communities First, Inc.
Wilson added: “Our intention is to bring audiences stories that they might not have heard otherwise and to bring together community through music, food and great films.”
Following the film, CFI will hosted an insightful film discussion with local resident and swim educator Charlie Dobson. Dobson also owns We Swim Aquatics, an all-ages swim school that believes swimming is for everyone. This discussion is also being streamed on Saturday, January 13 on the Communities First YouTube and Facebook Live.
The final film in the 9th Annual African American Film Series is will take on February 8. “Hush”, is a 76-minute documentary about the origins of generational trauma and access to mental health resources within Black communities
The series is sponsored in part by the Flint Institute of Arts, Genesee Health System, Mid-Michigan Now, the Nartel Family Foundation, Valley Area Agency on Aging, the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Glenn & Essence Wilson, Gary and Carol Hurand, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Epsilon Upsilon Lambda Flint Chapter, Lurvey Construction, HAP and Lynne Hurand. Donations are encouraged but not required.
About Communities First, Inc. (CFI)
Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation. Headquartered in Flint, CFI serves over 35,000 community members across Michigan and Indiana. CFI’s mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. More information about Communities First, Inc. can be found at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.
