Visions of Freedom Film Festival
Dear Visionaries:
I am delighted to welcome you to the Inaugural Visions of Freedom Film Festival! Rooted in the creative and scholarly mission of Howard University’s Department of English and First Year Writing Program, this festival brings together filmmakers, students, faculty, and community members who share a passion for uplifting Black voices.
Although unforeseen weather has led us to pivot to an all-virtual format, we see this as an opportunity to reach even more viewers, near and far. Over the next four days, you will experience documentaries, dramas, and intimate conversations that explore the tapestry of Black life while bridging the power of literature, reading, writing, research, and film. Together, these disciplines fuel our collective imagination, inspire empathy, and forge new paths toward creative and social transformation.
Thank you for joining us on this historic occasion. May each film and discussion ignite the visionary within you and affirm the vital role that stories play in our pursuit of freedom.
With deep gratitude,
Dr. Monique L. Akassi Producer & Director, Healing From Silence
1. Welcome Addresses
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2. Festival Overview
3. Daily Schedules (February 11–14, 2025)
4. Film & Documentary Descriptions
5. Q&A, Interactive Activities & Raffle Drawings
FESTIVAL OVERVIEW
About the Festival
The Visions of Freedom Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing and celebrating Black narratives in film, scholarship, and creative arts. Originally planned as a hybrid event, we’ve moved fully online due to inclement weather. The virtual setting allows participants from around the globe to engage in screenings, Q&As, daily award presentations, and raffle drawings.
Hosts
• Department of English
• First Year Writing Program
How to Participate
Main Festival Zoom Link
https://howard.zoom.us/j/82194079843?pwd=QQueuWDE3tMi2okmKi7YYmd19y2h7z.1
Meeting ID: 821 9407 9843
Passcode: 30810391
Special Zoom Link (Nikki Giovanni Read-A-Thon – Day 4, 12–2 PM): https://howard.zoom.us/j/88283060955?pwd=aGab9yMGPgUPhKCrQBm5gGGzC9VjOg.1
Meeting ID: 882 8306 0955
Passcode: 61054316
• Admission: All events are free for Howard University’s students, faculty, staff and alumni and open to the public. Join via your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
DAY-BY-DAY SCHEDULE
FILM & DOCUMENTARY DESCRIPTIONS
2025 VISIONS OF FREEDOM FILM FESTIVAL –VIRTUAL TUESDAY THROUGH THURSDAY
FRIDAY
IN PERSON—CRAMTON AUDITORIUM
Zoom Link for ALL Events
https://howard.zoom.us/j/82765816645?pwd=1jcppfaE9gy9CaQJEksT3iiZV4Ilrv.1
Meeting ID: 827 6581 6645
Passcode: 12966788
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2025 — VIRTUAL
11:30 AM
Virtual Red Carpet & Mixer
Kick off the festival online! Dress to impress and turn on your camera for virtual photo ops. Network with filmmakers and fellow attendees via breakout rooms.
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Black In Hollywood by Brandon Miree
Synopsis (25 min + Q&A):
Part of a docu-series highlighting Black excellence in the entertainment industry, this episode follows Carlton Jordan’s experiences as a Hollywood writer/producer. Jordan candidly navigates the challenges of tokenism while forging an authentic and successful path.
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Freedom Seekers: Black Seminoles Past and Present by Dr. Anthony Dixon & Zarion Hadley
Synopsis (25 min + Q&A):
A powerful examination of the Black Seminoles innovators of the first underground railroad and leaders of the largest, most successful slave rebellion in U.S. history.
3:00 – 5:30 PM
Nanny by Dr. Nikyatu Jusu
Synopsis (1 hr 39 min + Q&A):
A psychological thriller centered on Aisha, a Senegalese nanny striving to build a secure life in New York City. As she cares for a family on the Upper East Side, hidden truths emerge that threaten her precarious American Dream.
5:30 6:00 PM
Intermission
6:00 – 7:00 PM
Healing From Silence by HU Professor Dr. Monique L. Akassi
Synopsis (30 min + Q&A):
A moving drama chronicling Nia’s struggle with unspoken trauma. Through moments of introspection and a pivotal discussion with a close friend, she embarks on a transformative journey toward healing and reclaiming her voice.
7:00 – 7:30 PM
Musical Intermission
Enjoy a live virtual performance by Rocky Chatman.
7:30 – 9:00 PM
Mile 19 by Howard Clay
Synopsis (1 hr 25 min + Q&A):
During a hectic business trip, Linda stops to assist a driver stranded on the roadside. This simple act of kindness propels her into a life-changing journey that challenges her perspectives on compassion and destiny.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2025
12:00 – 1:00 PM
The Other Side of Ecstasy by Larry Smith III
Synopsis:
VIRTUAL
A contemplative film that examines a protagonist’s pivotal night of consequence and introspection. Themes of moral struggle and spiritual awakening weave throughout, prompting viewers to reflect on how a single evening can alter life’s course.
(Following this screening, enjoy networking in breakout rooms with the filmmaker and fellow attendees.)
1:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. (45 minutes)
Unbroken: Stories of Survival by Jacobi Davis; Jacobi Davis Cinematographer: Steven Lester/SL Filmworks
Synopsis: Unbroken: Stories of Survival chronicles the journeys of three women who have faced years of domestic abuse. Despite their different backgrounds and life experiences, the narrative highlights the common threads that run through their stories and how these tragedies unfold in strikingly similar ways. It delves into the origins of their suffering, the pain they endured, and their eventual triumph over adversity.
3:00 p.m. –3:15 p.m.
The New Movement Art Gallery Presentation by Mark Owens
Mark Owens, artist and founder of The New Movement Art Gallery, will present his latest art pieces and discuss the power of art as a powerful medium for empowerment within storytelling.
*(Afternoon open for asynchronous viewing or lunch break no further screenings.)
Overcoming Bitterness: Mara’s Story by Chaquita McNeil
In this inspiring graphic story, follow Mara, a young woman who discovers the transformative power of letting go of bitterness and embracing positivity in the face of life's obstacles. Struggling with disappointment and frustration, Mara learns that holding onto resentment only holds her back from reaching her true potential.. (Please click to watch anytime).
https://youtu.be/VP1K1S_wTQE?si=ARiXKiNmOilW7aEA
First Year Writing Program Students’ English 102 Video Essays from Dr. Rebecca Boylan’s Class (Please click the link to watch anytime).
1.Gabrielle Johnson
https://app.screencastify.com/v3/watch/SXuu3291nqMp2K64hgII
Video Download:
FINAL ENGW.mp4
2.Xavier Anyaoha https://share.icloud.com/photos/09ctJpSSfokoJqMWPH9fygpxQ
3.Katumi Nuru Project2.MOV
4.Zion Kelly
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mgyrml1bh8u5da6a0r4yi/Zion-Kelly-ENGW-102-VideoEssay.mp4?rlkey=pv705wam87b5z0z5brtekjn82&st=i9fxdk2b&dl=0
5.Jordan Pollard https://youtu.be/j1rpM3zFe60
6.Antoinette Nash
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88lUOAg0oQ8
7.Danika Eisenmenge English Final.mp4
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025 — VIRTUAL
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Making Life Sing In Pursuit of Utu by Dr. Ndirangu Wachanga
Synopsis:
A compelling documentary that spotlights Micere Githae Mugo one of Africa’s most revered writers, activists, and postcolonial thinkers. As the first woman to serve as dean at an African university, she devoted decades to championing democratic and human rights across Kenya and beyond.
5:00 – 6:30 PM
Shutdown by Dr. Simone Drake
Synopsis (1 hr + Q&A):
Set in Columbus, Ohio, in turbulent 1971, this documentary follows a group of determined Black teens who confront systemic inequities in their schools, reshaping the local fight for justice and equality.
DAY 4
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025 IN PERSON CRAMTON
AUDITORIUM
Nikki Giovanni Read-A-Thon Online: Join Zoom Meeting https://howard.zoom.us/j/88283060955?pwd=aGab9yMGPgUPhKCrQBm5gGGzC9VjOg.1
Meeting ID: 882 8306 0955
Passcode: 61054316
Special Guests: Ben Vinson III, President of Howard University; Dr. Virginia Fowler, Dr. Nikki Giovanni’s lifelong partner; Honorable Mayor of Washington DC, Muriel Bowser, Honorable Mayor of Glenarden, MD, Dr. Cashenna Cross; Dr. Anthony K. Wutoh, Provost & Chief Academic Officer; Dr. Rubin Paterson, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Carole
Boyce Davies, Department Chair of English; Live readings of Nikki Giovanni’s poetry, openmic reflections, and interactive chat.
12:00 PM – 12:05 PM
Opening & Welcome by the Director of First Year Writing and Director and Producer of Visions of Freedom: A Black Film Festival
• Dr. Monique L. Akassi
12:05 PM – 12:10 PM
President of Howard University’s Welcome Address
• Dr. Ben Vinson III
Honorable Mayor of Washington Welcome Address & Proclamation
• Muriel Bowser, Mayor of Washington DC
Honorable Ambassador & Mayor of Glenarden, MD Welcome Address
• Dr. Cashenna Cross
Provost of & Chief Academic Officer at Howard University
• Dr. Anthony K. Wutoh
Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Welcome Address
• Dr. Rubin Patterson
Department Chair of English Welcome Address
• Dr. Carole Boyce-Davies
Director of Creative Writing
• Dr. Tony Medina
1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Nikki Giovanni Read-A-Thon
• Professor A.J. Verdelle, Read-A-Thon MC
Nikki Giovanni Read-a-Thon
MC Statement:
"Now, we turn to Nikki Giovanni’s own words. Her poetry spans generations, from the civil rights movement to the classrooms of today. Each reader will bring life to her words, and we encourage you to listen, reflect, and immerse yourselves in the power of Nikki Giovanni’s poetry."
Poetry
Readings & Reflections
Section 1: Black Identity, Activism & Resistance
MC Statement:
"Nikki Giovanni's poetry is a rallying cry a call to embrace our history, our struggles, and our triumphs."
Professor A.J. Verdelle: "Ego Tripping (There May Be a Reason Why)"
Kadisha Mitchell reads “My First Memory of Librarians”
Hailey Gibson, Snowdenn Jackson, Alexis Edgley, Amy Peters,
Alianna Kanu, Makala Celestine, and Olivia Ocran read
“Linkage,” for Phillis Wheatley
Javon Scurry reads “Black Power”
Section 2: Love, Relationships & Family
MC Statement:
"Beyond activism, Nikki Giovanni’s poetry captures the essence of human connection love, relationships, and family."
Arrionna Robinson reads “Balances”
Amailee Crisp reads “Boxes”
Professor Tricia Elam reads “Age”
Section 3: Cultural & Social Commentary
MC Statement:
"Nikki Giovanni’s poetry speaks to the times we live in and the conversations we must have with those we love, and with ourselves."
Margeaux Morial reads “Luxury”
Kamsi Eze reads "Mother's Habits"
Zoe St. Clair reads “Once a Lady Told Me”
Noah Green reads “Poem (No Name # 3)
Dr. Jacquetta Ayewoh reads "Beautiful Black Men
Section 4: Legacy & Hope for the Future (1:40 – 1:50 PM)
MC Statement:
"Nikki Giovanni’s legacy is not just one of poetry, but also of moral perspective, and human possibility."
Dr. Tony Medina reads “Allowables”
Athena Jasmine Robinson reads “Photography”
Maya Blackston reads “Detroit Conference of Unity and Art”
Mariam Dembele reads “The Beep, Beep, Beep Poem”
Dr. Monique Akassi reads “Nikki Rosa”
1:55 – 1:58 PM | Closing Remarks & Celebration
Read-A-Thon MC Closing Statement:
"Nikki Giovanni once said, ‘Mistakes are a fact of life. It is the response to the error that counts.’ Today, we honor her words, her wisdom, and her unwavering voice. Thank you for being part of this celebration of poetry, resilience, and truth."
1:58 PM – 2:00 PM
• Closing Remarks and Film Festival Announcements by Dr. Monique L. Akassi
We look forward to honoring Nikki Giovanni’s legacy together with these readings, discussions, and community reflections. Thank you for joining us in this celebration of poetry, creativity, and the enduring power of the written word.
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM Red Carpet Event in Cramton Auditorium & Raffle Drawings
• Recognize standout readers or participants and draw winners. Join us in person for the Afternoon Screenings in Cramton Auditorium (2:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
1. 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM Homegrown: Films by Howard University Professors & Alumni 1. 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
The Last Battlefront by HU Prof. Maha Haddad & Anna Reid Jhirad (56 min)
2. 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Sin Luces by HU Profs. Dr. Shahriar Shafiani & Srikanth Nandigama (18 min)
3. 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Somewhere in Brooklyn by HU Alum Brandon Wilkerson (21 min)
4. 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Q&A with Prof. Haddad, Prof. Shafiani, & Brandon Wilkerson
2. 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Healing From Silence by Dr. Monique L. Akassi
1. Runtime: 30 min + Q&A
2. A powerful drama about confronting trauma and reclaiming one’s voice.
3. 6:05 p.m. Musical Tribute to Nikki Giovanni with Rel Jones
4. 6:10 PM – 7:45 PM
Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project by Joe Brewster & Michele Stephenson
o Runtime: 1 hr 42 min + Q&A
o An otherworldly exploration of Nikki Giovanni’s enduring influence.
5. 7:45 PM – 8:00 PM
Award Ceremony & Raffle Drawings
o Honoring final-day highlights and announcing the last raffle winners.
6. 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Festival Closing & Thank You
o Farewell remarks, gratitude to sponsors, and a toast to the next festival.
8:30 PM 9:30 PM Reception on the lower level of Cramton Auditorium
FESTIVAL REMINDERS
• All events use the same Zoom link for easy access.
• Please keep your microphone on mute during screenings to avoid background noise.
• Engage in the chat or raise your hand for live Q&As.
Thank you for celebrating the power of Black storytelling, poetry, and scholarship at the Visions of Freedom Film Festival now fully online for the health and safety of our community
Q&A, INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES & RAFFLE DRAWINGS
• Live Chat & Polls: Participate in Zoom polls and share your thoughts in the chat.
• Breakout Rooms: After each screening block, join a breakout room for intimate discussions.
• Daily Raffle Drawings: At the end of each day’s events, we’ll draw winners from the attendee list for gift cards or festival merchandise.
• Award Ceremonies: Each day concludes with acknowledgments for exceptional films, performances, or audience engagement.
VIRTUAL ACCESS & TECH SUPPORT
• Zoom: Ensure you have the latest Zoom client.
• Tech Tips: Mute your mic during screenings to reduce background noise; use headphones for best audio.
• Contact:
o Email: Monique.Akassi@howard.edu
o Phone (Festival Hotline): (202) 201-6249
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS & SPONSORS
Special Thanks To:
• President of Howard University, Dr. Ben Vison III; our Provost, Dr. Anthony Wutoh, the Dean of COAS, Dr. Rubin Patterson, Department Chair of English, Dr. Carole BoyceDavies; and Director of First-Year-Writing Program, Dr. Monique L. Akssi
• The entire Department of English and First Year Writing Program’s students, faculty and staff, including Mr. Jordan Lewis, Ms. Chaquita McNeil, and Ms. Brenda Douglas
• Filmmakers, panelists, and community leaders who made this festival possible.
• All attendees for their enthusiastic participation, especially Honorable Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington DC, Honorable Mayor and Ambassador, Cashenna Cross; and
• Dr. Virginia Fowler
• Our local and national sponsors providing resources, prizes, and unwavering support.
• The Best Planning Committee Team, ever: Prof. Yael, Dr. Ayewoh,
CAST YOUR VOTE: PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD AND FEEDBACK FOR
We Value Your Feedback
Please take a moment to click the link below. and complete our brief survey. Your input helps us improve future festivals, curate engaging content, and provide a better overall experience for all attendees. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/L7JMWGR
Dr. Monique L. Akassi, Film Festival and Read-A-Thon Director and Producer
Dr. Carole Boyce-Davies, Film Festival Production Team Member
Professor Yael Kiken, Film Festival Production Team Member
Mr. Jordan Lewis, Film Festival Production Team Member
Mr. Zarian Hadley, Film Production Team Member
A.J. Verdelle, Read-A-Thon Readings Coordinator Member
Mr. Steven Lester, Cinematographer
For more information, including inquiries regarding our 2026 Film Festival, please visit our website at https://theblackfilmfestival.godaddysites.com/
Inaugural Visions of Freedom Film Festival
Hosted by the Department of English and First Year Writing Program
February 11–14, 2025 | Virtual Edition
“Where voices unite to envision, create, and celebrate our collective freedom, bridging the power of literature, reading, writing, research, and film.”