A new film contest coordinated by the “I AM 2018” movement seeks short video submissions that connect Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy to the ongoing fight for equality.
Contestants will create a 30- to 60-second videos “that succinctly and creatively connect the struggles of the past to those of the present … that illuminate how the legacy of Dr. King and the striking sanitation workers remain relevant.”
The winning videos will be used as part of the I AM 2018 campaign’s major online ad campaign initiative, reaching thousands of viewers across the country leading up to a series of events planned in Memphis to commemorate the 50th anniversary King’s assassination.
The films, which must be submitted by Mar. 9, will be judged by prominent industry professionals, including Hans Charles, cinematographer of Ava DuVernay’s Oscar-nominated documentary “13th,” Dorian Parks, co-founder of Geeks of Color, and award-winning filmmakers Madeleine Hunt Erlich and Shahin Izadi.
“We are living in a unique time where young people are rising up and demanding social change as the fight for equality continues,” Charles said. “Throughout my career I have seen how powerful a medium video can be, not only through sharing personal stories, but also inspiring and promoting changes in the course of history. I’m looking forward to seeing the dynamic work of the world changers who are continuing to build a legacy of social justice.”
The winning submissions will screen at the Mason Temple in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 3 as part of the Mountaintop Conference. The contest winner will also be given a free trip to Memphis for an event convening major social justice leaders, or a $1,000 grant.
For film contest details, go to https://filmfreeway.com/IAM2018VideoContest-1.