Magazine, Entertainment, Stop The Hate
The Immigrant Magazine’s presentation of the Caribbean film “Deep Blue” at PAFF 2024 was a transformative experience, showcasing the power of cinema to drive social awareness and positive change. This carefully selected feature, part of the Stop The Hate Immigrant Connection mixer, provided an unprecedented platform for black immigrants worldwide to connect through shared experiences and delve into the profound issues of hate and exploitation faced by communities of color.
“Deep Blue” skillfully unraveled the daily struggles of black immigrants and people of color, shedding light on the often-overlooked exploitation perpetuated by both expats and locals with self-serving interests. It resonated as a compelling call for vigilance, extending beyond foreign expats to emphasize collective responsibility towards our systems and leaders, prioritizing the greater good over personal gain.
Front right: Director Howard Allen with movie attendees
As the audience absorbed the intricacies of this beautifully crafted movie, the message of Stop The Hate Against Black Immigrants resonated strongly. “Deep Blue” captivated our predominantly diaspora audience, leaving them not only informed about the urgent need to protect the environment in the face of Climate Change but also inspired to take tangible action for the greater good.
Insights shared by veteran film and television director/screenwriter Howard Allen, originally from Antigua, marked the event’s pinnacle. His remarkable work defied common challenges faced by people of color in the film industry, inspiring many. Allen’s vision, conveyed through the film and further explored during the engaging Q&A session, left the audience not only inspired but also resolute in their commitment to making a positive impact.
The purposeful choice of spotlighting “Deep Blue” at the heart of the Stop The Hate Immigrant Connection mixer by The Immigrant Magazine’s publishers, Pamela and Charles Anchang, not only provided an exclusive chance for black immigrants worldwide to explore their shared experiences but also served as a tribute to the exceptional work of a distinguished black filmmaker, surpassing geographical boundaries. The audience, a dynamic and influential assembly of community leaders representing diverse backgrounds, including African, Caribbean, Afro-Latino, and African American individuals, comprised ambassadors advocating against Black Immigrant discrimination, prominent figures, campaign chairs and co-chairs like Rev. Pastor Kelvin Sauls, Juanita Palacios Sims (Founder of the International Society of Black Latinos), EZ Agrippa (Founder of the African Diaspora Foundation), Sylvia Litana Ezozo (Chairperson of the African Diaspora Foundation), and esteemed personalities such as Zerihoun Yilma (Managing Director of CHIRLA, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, Los Angeles), Elizabeth Birks (District Entertainment and Wellness Representative – Office of Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas), and Dr. Anthony Samad (Executive Director of the Mervyn M. Dymally African-American Political & Economic Institute). Together, they contributed a wealth of perspectives, enriching the event with their collective insights.
In the broader context, this historic occasion stands as a testament to the powerful intersection of cinema, social awareness, and the urgent call for positive change. “Deep Blue” has proven itself to be more than a film; it’s a cinematic journey that empowers, educates, and inspires action, echoing the collective voice against hate and exploitation while advocating for a better, more inclusive world.
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This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.
