This Black History Month, we honor the stories of resilience, culture, and activism that have shaped the Black experience worldwide. Through a diverse collection of films, this series delves into pivotal moments, untold histories, and transformative figures who fought for justice, challenged systemic oppression, and left an enduring cultural legacy. This special event will be held from February 28 – March 2, 2025, at Teachers College, Columbia University.

February 28

6pm Boma Tervuren, The Journey (Le voyage)

The film recounts the tragic 1897 World’s Fair exhibit of 267 Congolese, their exploitation, deaths, and a century-long reckoning with colonial stereotypes and reparative reflection. Directed by Frances Dujardin, 1999, 54 min, Documentary, Belgium, French with English subtitles

7:30pm Attica

Follows the largest prison uprising in US history, conducting dozens of new interviews with inmates, journalists, and other witnesses. Directed by Traci A. Curry, Stanley Nelson, 2021, 117 min, Documentary, USA, English

March 1

1pm Gurumbe: Afro-Andalusian Memories

This documentary reveals the forgotten history of African slaves in Spain and their profound cultural contributions. Directed by M. Ángel Rosale, 2016, 72 minutes, Documentary, Spain, Mexico, Senegal, Spanish with English subtitles

3pm Zora Neale Hurston: Jump at the Sun

This film celebrates Zora Neale Hurston, groundbreaking novelist, anthropologist, and literary pioneer, highlighting her vibrant, complex, and original legacy. Directed by Sam Pollard, 2008, 83 minutes, Documentary, USA, English

5pm Fighting For Respect: African Americans in WWI

Fighting for Respect captures the plight of African American soldiers who fought in WWI, receiving the Croix de Guerre military decoration from France, while still fighting discrimination and hatred at home in America. Directed by Joanne Burke, 2021, 54 minutes, Documentary, USA, France, English

6:30pm  Fighting White Supremacy:

Keepers of the Flame

On the eve of the 1913 Women’s Suffrage Parade, Black suffragettes challenge racist exclusion by white organizer Alice Paul. Directed by Shari L. Carpenter, 2023, 17 minutes, Short/Drama, USA, English

Chisholm ‘72: Unbought & Unbossed

In 1968, Shirley Chisholm becomes Congress’s first black woman; in 1972, she runs for president, defying political norms. Directed by Shola Lynch, 2004, 75 minutes, Documentary, USA, English

Judging Juries

Judging Juries exposes barriers to fair representation in criminal juries, including pay, peremptory challenges, and felony exclusions. Directed by Abby Ginzberg, 2024, 24 minutes, Documentary, USA, English

March 2

2pm Yafa Forgiveness (YAFA Le Pardon)

YAFA Forgiveness explores power, class, and understanding between an African asylum seeker and a Caribbean policeman. Directed by Christian Lara, 2020, 85 minutes, Drama, French with English subtitles

4pm Teddy Pendegrass: If You Don’t Know Me

Teddy Pendergrass’s inspiring journey shaped 1970s R&B until a tragic accident altered his life forever. Directed by Olivia Lichtenstein, 2018, 106 minutes, Documentary, USA, English

6:30pm San Juan Hill: Manhattan’s Lost Neighborhood

San Juan Hill uncovers Manhattan’s lost neighborhood, celebrating its vibrant culture, people, and lasting artistic legacy. Directed by Stanley Nelson, 2024, 60 minutes, Documentary, USA, Engli