We're excited to announce our first gathering, November 4th through 6th, since the onset of COVID, bringing together people in person! We will debut our latest films exploring a sense of belonging in a thriving community, and engage in break-out discussions with thought leaders and attendees from the community.
The gathering will feature new films of amazing people who are creating a sense of belonging:
Together They Were Stronger — A documentary film short that celebrates one untold story about four women who mounted an all-out civil rights campaign to create a movement establishing the first-ever disability rights law in the United States, WA HB 90. Check out a preview of this short film! The disability civil rights movement has many distinct narratives, but the prevailing themes are of community, justice, and equity. As with every other civil rights movement, the fight for disability rights is one that challenges negative attitudes and pushes back against oppression.
Whidbey Veterans Resource Center — What happens when our vets walk out the door after their service in the military? Some resume their lives in a normal fashion. Many do not. Where is the safety net? Island County, WA, has more veterans than any other in the state of Washington. This is a story of support, care, and coming home that makes a difference to men and women who have served our country.
Toyia Taylor: Talk to Your Future Self — The powerful journey of Toyia Taylor who started with a few students in grade school exploring how they could express their life journey by writing and speaking their truth. Today, Toyia has worked with over 500 families and her programming is offered in four Seattle Public Schools. Toyia and her team are changing lives each day. Check out a preview of this short film!
Carillon Community, Richmond VA — Reveals how an integrated community began and exists today in spite of the challenges of racial inequity, redlining, and segregation. This is a powerful film for any community seeking opportunities to grow in an equitable and fair manner. This is a story of another way of living and being that needs to be told.
This gathering is open to anyone who wants to learn about building a sense of thriving and belonging in their community. That's YOU!
Our films are a catalyst for connection amongst those we have filmed and those who attend. Connection will occur through conversation (small and large groups.)
We believe there is a certain power found in sharing the story of profound experiences through film that can connect us, and awaken us to unseen possibilities. We want this time to catapult you into finding ways to change your community through the awareness of the leaders in our featured films.
Amazing community meals provided (menu specifics TBA.)
Lodging will be first come first serve (capacity of 20 or so) at The Whidbey Institute's unbelievable facility in the forest.
