More Than A Month: Film screening and post-film discussion with Filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman As I stood in the middle of Bulldog Ally laced up in my new sneaker wedges and a sandwich board inscribed with the provocative statement, “End Black History Month, Black History is American History” I was overcome with an uncomfortable, yet giddy sensation of knowing that my actions were soliciting controversy. Inspired by American Film maker, Shukree Tilghman’s newest production “More Than a Month” where he himself, armed with a sandwich board, camera, and ambition to end Black History Month, hits the streets of urban America. Following along Shukree’s journey in the documentary, viewers too become aware that the initial question concerning the eradication or continuation of Black History Month, transforms into a much more complicated topic than the original definitive seeking question appears. The unique opportunity to dialogue with the director/star following the viewing was rewarding. He openly answered all posed questions which examined the technicality of film making as well as his current stance on the controversial topic. 502 e boone ave msc#2466, spokane, wa 99258
Quite profoundly, Shukree uses the metaphor of an injured person’s reliance on a crutch to that of America’s reliance on Black History Month. Further, he emphasized the difference between wanting something and needing it. As of now, America needs Black History Month, but as Shukree optimistically articulated, within our generation there will come a time when America transcends its need for Black History Month, then it will no longer exist out of necessity but out of a genuine desire to commemorate. After leaving the event and reflecting on Mr. Tilghman’s work and message, I left convicted and eagerly look forward to embracing that uncomfortable, yet giddy sensation standing for something greater always invokes.
-STUDENT REFLECTION BY MICHAELA BROWN, GU JUNIOR AND ACT SIX SCHOLAR, CADRE II Photo courtesy of UMEC Staff
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