Facing Down Storms: Memphis and the Making of Ida B. Wells Screening

2105 Court Avenue,Memphis TN 38104

28 July, 2022

Description

The feature-length documentary explores how the unique cultural and social atmosphere of late 19th-century Memphis indelibly shaped Ida B. Wells as a journalist and activist. The 1892 lynching of three men, including a dear friend of Wells, fueled her zealous efforts to combat the widespread acceptance of the lynching of African Americans in the United States. Wells used the power of journalism to expose to international audiences the injustices of the rising practice of lynching — a form of extralegal execution often taking the form of mob violence against African Americans. This film contains disturbing and graphic images of lynching. Viewer discretion is advised. “Facing Down Storms: Memphis and the Making of Ida B. Wells” is executive produced by Daphene McFerren, Hooks Institute executive director, and Nathaniel Ball, Hooks Institute assistant director of media initiatives and program support; and produced by Fabian Matthews, founder and owner of Spotlight Productions, LLC. “Facing Down Storms highlights Wells’ courageous and inspiring actions as she challenged white supremacy in the late 19th century and early 20th century while navigating the complicated politics of race and gender of the time,” said McFerren. “Today, the nation continues to struggle with issues of race, class and gender. This film shows how Wells navigated those times and inspires us to learn from her activism to address the same issues in our lifetime. We are very proud that this documentary is produced by Memphians about a legendary Memphian, and we are very excited to share Ida B Wells’ story with the world.”