Two Films, Two Cities, One Vision: Detroit and Cleveland's Stories of Food Sovereignty
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Stories abound—they are all around us. They reveal themselves when communities refuse to wait for someone else to fix what's broken.
On Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM PST, Meaningful Movies Spokane presents two powerful documentaries about transformation, resilience, and community-led change at the Carl Maxey Center, 3114 E 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99202.
Rising, Rooted, and Resilient
In Detroit, where nearly 70% of residents lack food security, the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network spent 14 years building something the city desperately needed: a community-owned grocery store.
This film follows Executive Director Malik Yakini and DBCFSN's decades-long journey to create the Detroit People's Food Co-op, which opened in 2025. More than just a store, it represents a fundamental shift—communities deciding what food access looks like on their own terms, creating closed-loop networks that prioritize local food production and Black ownership.
Regenerating Communities
Cleveland's "Forgotten Triangle" was exactly what the name suggests: a notorious illegal dumping ground that the city forgot. In 2010, Rid-All Green Partnership transformed it into a vibrant hub for urban farming, community wellness, and local pride.
This is more than a story about soil and seeds. It's about people reclaiming their neighborhood and restoring dignity—proving that transformation happens when people commit to sustained work.
Why These Stories Matter
Both films showcase communities building practical solutions from the ground up. No waiting for permission. No grand funding. Just people showing up, day after day, season after season, until something impossible becomes real.
"As a filmmaker, my mission has always been to shine a light on stories that inspire, challenge, and transform," says Jerry Millhon, Founder of Thriving Communities. "These films are born from that mission—testaments to the power of hope and community spirit in the face of adversity."
The screening will be followed by discussion with special guest Duaa-Rahemaah Hunter and is sponsored by Black Earth Day: Seed to Soul. Spokane.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026 Time: 1:00 PM PST Location: Carl Maxey Center, 3114 E Fifth Ave, Spokane, WA 99202 Cost: Free Hosted by: Meaningful Movies Spokane
Join us for these inspiring films and stay for the conversation. Community transformation starts with someone showing up.
Hope to see you at the film.