Africa and Africans on Film

As you may know, I attended the presentation on How Black People Won World War II by Tony Warner at the Imperial War Museum yesterday. Often, we are not told about aspects of our history. Every time I attend one of Brother Tony's presentations, I learn more valuable information. I enjoy not only his detailed and extensive knowledge, but also his enthusiasm for his subject. It is vital that we continue to uncover these hidden histories – these stories which have been obscured or forgotten. Knowledge of our history and ancestral heritage is vital for our self-esteem and confidence. Click here to read about ... Read Full Story

"Harriet" is a choreopoem by Zhana which explores themes around the sexual exploitation of African American women during enslavement.  A short film based on "Harriet" will be screened as part of the London Black Film Festival 2009. To read more, see Harriet:  A Choreopoem We spoke about the importance of telling our stories in my recent radio interview with Loretta N. Green .  For more Black History Month UK films and other events, see Black History International .     Read Full Story

African Remembrance Day celebrates the victory of Toussaint L'Ouverture over Napoleon's forces in Haiti. L'Ouverture mobilised enslaved African people to fight for their freedom. He was never defeated and Napoleon was forced to sign a treaty with him. This year, the BFI South Bank screened two films to commemorate Africa Liberation Day.  To read more, see Two Films about Haiti .  Read Full Story

I was very moved and inspired by this political thriller, which depicted the true story of top secret talks held in the 1980s which led to the end of the apartheid regime in South Africa. It was recently screened on Channel 4 in the UK. This story is not really known, even today. When most people thought a violent end to apartheid was inevitablem those who took part in these talks showed extraordinary courage, risking their lives and those of their families and friends. This is truly the courage of a few individuals in the face of danger from the group. Click here to ... Read Full Story

Hotel Rwanda tells the true story of Paul Rusesabagina, a part-Hutu Rwandan.  This film celebrates the courage of one man who stood against the group.  Being part-Hutu, Paul Rusesabagina is safe from being attacked, although he risks guilt by association for harbouring European and Tutsi refugees in the hotel. His wife Tatiana is a Tutsi. He stands apart as an individual, protecting the vulnerable and going against group conditioning. Although the two groups, Hutus and Tutsis, are in conflict, Rusesabagina shows extraordinary courage and compassion, protecting the vulnerable. To readh more, see Hotel Rwanda .  Read Full Story