The African-American Heritage Committee and Washington College will present a showing of the film "Sankofa" at Norman James Theatre on Friday, June 13, at 6:30 p.m., with food, drink and discussion following.
"Sankofa" features a lush, expressive style and energy, juxtaposing the brutalities endured by plantation slaves with the beauty of the landscape and the spiritual will of the oppressed. Layered throughout the film is a complex musical score composed of African drumming, electronic rhythms, and American jazz and blues. It's a visceral and deeply moving portrait of plantation life viewed from an African perspective.
"History is power," said director Haile Gerima, "which is why we named the film 'Sankofa.' 'Sankofa' is a philosophical, mythological bird passed down from generation to generation from the Akan people of Ghana. The name means [that in order] to move forward, you must reclaim the past. In the past, you find the future and understand the present."
The special screening of "Sankofa" is co-sponsored by the Office of the Provost & Dean and the Office of Campus Events & Visitors. Admission is free and open to the public. (Some material is not suitable for audiences under 16 years old.) For more information, call 410/810-1416.
June 6, 2008
