Last night I watched The Black Power Mixtape at the BFI’s London Film Festival. I tweeted my thoughts on the documentary:
I’m convinced that film is one of the highest artistic expressions in contemporary society. I read a number of texts on the politics of Black Power and the Civil Rights Movement for class this week that challenged my thinking, but seeing footage of Black radicalism and resistance altered my soul. There are theories and context that raise important questions about how this documentary was put together. That is, the contrasting assertion of white power when stories which concern Black folk are continually appropriated & resold. I respect that the director was explicit in it being a Swedish perspective, and there is value in the view from outside. However, it’s time to push for greater accountability (even activism) especially when we are concerned with access to and dissemination of information. In the end though,
@BlkPowerMixtape quietened my mind and lit up my heart. I was struck by the strength of the Black spirit. Black people have met the iron fist of oppression all over this world, and it has always been said, freedom or death. I enjoyed a fabulous night out with special people and saw brothas who towered in beauty. Just fine for days! I’m never mad at that. - @IamNicholeBlack
