DETROIT — In honor of the legacy of Congressman John Lewis and the 55th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act, the Detroit Association of Black Organizations (DABO) is seeking support to offer a virtual screening experience for the film, “John Lewis: Good Trouble.” Funds raised will provide metro Detroiters with a complimentary “digital seat” to view the film at home and will benefit theRestore Black Wall Street 2021 Campaign.
Produced by Magnolia Pictures and Participant Media, the documentary showcases the lasting impact the late Congressman John Lewis had on voting rights throughout his life. The documentary dovetails nicely into corporate social responsibility themes, voting rights, and diversity & inclusion programs many organizations champion.
Last month at a press conference, the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce announced they would launch a campaign to raise funds to restore Black Wall Street, a once affluent black community destroyed during the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The campaign has since been named Restore Black Wall Street 2021. Greenwood Chamber of Commerce’s vision for Black Wall Street is to be recognized as a thriving, dynamic, and eclectic area in Tulsa encompassing four distinctive business districts surrounded by diverse, safe, and desirable neighborhoods as well as serve as an international beacon of African American economic progress.
“This opportunity is a wonderful way for metro Detroit organizations to help spread the documentary’s important message of leadership, equity, voting rights, and the legacy of John Lewis,” says Horace Sheffield, national chair of the Restore Black Wall Street Campaign and executive director of DABO.
Organizations from Detroit to Tulsa, renowned activists, and celebrities across the nation have agreed to rally together to support the Restore Black Wall Street 2021 Campaign including Al Sharpton, Dr. Cornel West, and actors Hill Harper, Erika Alexander, and Regina King.
“Considering the state of our nation, there is not a better time to restore Black Wall Street. It is not only overdue but a necessity for black-owned businesses to unite and preserve our history,” said Sheffield.
Included in the exclusive film screening is a virtual Q&A session with Sheffield and actress Erika Alexander who is also a producer of the film. “Congressman Lewis is an example of courage and faith and action. That’s one of the most powerful stories you can tell about any American icon,” said Ms. Alexander. The Q&A will be hosted by media personality Rachel Simone who also serves as director of influential marketing and partnerships for the Restore Black Wall Street 2021 Campaign.
Digital theatre seats will be distributed by Aug. 5th. The documentary will be available for at-home screenings on Aug. 6th and 7th.
Companies can distribute digital seats to employees, members, and friends or they can be donated to the Detroit Association of Black Organizations to be distributed throughout the community. All donations are tax deductible.
To donate to the screening opportunity, please visit https://secure.givelively.org/donate/detroit-association-of-black-organizations-dabo-inc/john-lewis-good-trouble-film-screening or if you would like more information please call 248-294-8683.