The “My VOICE, My VIEW, My VOTE” Digital Shorts Initiative Drives Social Change Among Emerging Filmmakers

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — At the recent Democratic National Convention, former First Lady Michelle Obama’s powerful call to action—encouraging individuals to harness their power to address injustices—continues to resonate nationwide. Her message echoes the urgency felt by students at Howard University last year when Barack and Michelle Obama presented “Rustin,” a Netflix biopic about Bayard Rustin, the mastermind behind the historic March on Washington on August 28, 1963. During the inaugural 2023 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival, they emphasized the importance of being a voice for change and how a single act can make a significant impact.

This year, student filmmakers are once again inspired to create meaningful change by participating 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 tasked with capturing their vision of being “The Next” changemaker in their communities through a digital short of 59 seconds or less, filmed on mobile devices. These entries must be submitted via social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube Shorts, and Threads, using the hashtag #IAspireChallenge. The top three finalists will be awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes, with winners announced in October 2024. Each winner will be prominently featured at the 2024 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival, scheduled for November 8-10.

This year’s festival is particularly significant as it coincides with the Democratic nominee for President of the United States being an HBCU graduate and proud alumnus of Howard University. This historic moment aligns seamlessly with the festival’s theme: “A Celebration of Black Cinema X Activism.” Since the March on Washington, when Black actors stood shoulder-to-shoulder with civil rights leaders in the struggle for racial equality, Hollywood has continued to leverage its influence to advocate for equal rights. Today, HBCU alumni in the arts and entertainment industries are paving the way for the next generation to effect change in their communities through their vote.

The 2nd annual HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) will be held from November 8-10, 2024, at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This year’s festival highlights include the “I Aspire” 100 List and the HBCU First LOOK App, which serves as a hub for the convergence of Black cinema and activism. The HBCU First LOOK Film Challenge will also be unveiled, featuring a lineup of entertainment industry leaders, filmmakers, speakers, and participants. Attendees can look forward to screenings and the Beyond the Lights! Career & Vendor Lounge. Key sponsors and media partners include AARP, Café Mocha Network, Howard University Television + Film (WHUT), HBCUGO.TV, Howard University Radio Network SiriusXM Channel 142, and L.A.I. Communications.

Stay connected with social platforms @hbcufirstlook using hashtags #hbcufirstlook, #blackfilmmakers, #myvoiceviewvote, and #IAspirechallenge for updates and more information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sheila Eldridge – [email protected]
Visit https://www.hbcufirstlook.com/filmfestival for further details.

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SOURCE: Miles Ahead Entertainment

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