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The “My VOICE, My VIEW, My VOTE” Digital Shorts Unveils Social Change Initiative for Emerging Filmmakers

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — At the Democratic National Convention, former First Lady Michelle Obama’s powerful call to action urging citizens to harness their power to address injustices continues to resonate nationwide. Howard University students particularly recall this sentiment from last year when Barack and Michelle Obama showcased “Rustin,” a Netflix biopic about Bayard Rustin, the mastermind behind the historic August 28, 1963 March on Washington. During the inaugural 2023 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival, the Obamas emphasized the importance of being a voice for change and highlighted how a single act can spark significant impact.

This momentum has inspired student filmmakers to participate in the My VOICE, My VIEW, My VOTE I Aspire mobile challenge for the 2024 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival at Howard University. Aspiring directors are invited to produce a digital short, no longer than 59 seconds, using their mobile devices to answer how they will become the next changemaker in their community. These submissions must be uploaded to social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube Shorts, and Threads with the hashtag #IAspireChallenge. The top three entries will be awarded first, second, and third place prizes, and winners will be announced in October 2024. Each winning entry will be showcased at the 2024 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival scheduled for November 8-10.

This year’s festival holds particular significance as the Democratic nominee for President of the United States is a graduate of an HBCU and a proud alumnus of Howard University. This historic event aligns perfectly with the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival’s theme: “A Celebration of Black Cinema X Activism.” Since the iconic March on Washington, where Black actors stood shoulder to shoulder with civil rights leaders in the quest for racial equality, Hollywood has played a pivotal role in championing equal rights. Today, HBCU alumni in arts and entertainment continue to build bridges for future generations, empowering them to effect change within their communities through their votes and voices.

The 2nd annual HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) will occur on November 8-10, 2024 at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This year’s festival will feature numerous highlights including the ‘I Aspire’ 100 List and the HBCU First LOOK App, which serves as a comprehensive resource at the intersection of Black cinema and activism. Additionally, the HBCU First LOOK Film Challenge will be unveiled with participation from various entertainment industry leaders, filmmakers, speakers, and attendees. The festival will also host screenings and provide networking opportunities at the Beyond the Lights! Career & Vendor Lounge. Key sponsors and media partners for this event include AARP, Café Mocha Network, Howard University Television + Film (WHUT), HBCUGO.TV, Howard University Radio Network SiriusXM Channel 142, and L.A.I. Communications.

For more details and updates, follow social platforms @hbcufirstlook using hashtags #hbcufirstlook #blackfilmmakers #myvoiceviewvote #IAspirechallenge.

For further information, please contact Sheila Eldridge at [email protected] or visit https://www.hbcufirstlook.com/filmfestival.

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