What Happened on First Street Documentary Film
A documentary film for social justice
Black residents and people of color speak up about the moment their hometown made
national headlines in the wake of George Floyd’s murder.
Watch the film HERE
THE CHALLENGE
To capture and represent complex, sensitive community events in an accurate, balanced, and respectful way that reflected multiple perspectives. Through interviews and collaboration with local DEI experts, this work resulted in a documentary, microsite, and a broader community movement.
ROLE
Director, Editor, Designer
in collaboration with Snohomish for Equity
AWARDS
• 2021 Young People's Award from the Snohomish County Human Rights Commission
• Seattle Black Film Festival 2022
A Microcosm for the Nation
The project began in August 2020 with the intent of creating a historical account of the events that had occurred in our hometown, and solutions for how we can move forward as a community and a nation.
“When we first began this project, I don’t think we ever expected to still be working on it
over a year
later. But in the time it’s taken to get this documentary across the finish line, it’s become clear
how
quickly our collective memory fades and how important it is that we accurately record history —
especially when it’s ugly. I was a part of this project because I truly love Snohomish, but know
that
there’s a lot of work that needs to be done to ensure all of its residents feel safe and welcome.”
- Drake
Amplifying Voices & Sharing Perspectives
Local voices from the community were gathered to share the collective experience of BIPOC residents within Snohomish. Their stories are part of a collective experience felt by many throughout the country and around the world. Experiences were weaved and stitched together to convey their hearts into one singular narrative--to listen, understand, and change.
Moving into Action
A starter kit was created full of resources to help communities and individuals begin their journey. With consultation from local DEI expert, the kit provides resources for further exploration: Learn, Reflect, Process.
Recognition
The film and project received multiple awards across the local and national community, garnering wide spread attention from local press to the National Education Association.
A Ripple of Change
The protest and subsequent film resulted in changes to elected political leadership and a historic union agreement inclusive of student demands.