Latest news with #socialjustice
Associated Press
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC Announces Social Justice Film "The System" to Spotlight Injustices in Family Court System
R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC launches its film 'The System' as part of a larger mission to challenge injustice through independent storytelling. United States, June 2, 2025 -- From Vision to Voice: The Birth of R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC Shaquana Douglas, CEO, director, and writer of the upcoming film The System and owner of R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC, leads the independent production company dedicated to telling stories often overlooked by mainstream media. Operating under the banner 'Rap-Arted-Flows — Where Voice Meets Vision,' the company blends film and music to illuminate injustices faced by marginalized communities. Douglas, who brings firsthand knowledge of the trauma caused by family separation and systemic bias, established R.A.F not simply to entertain but to catalyze reform. 'I didn't start R.A.F just to make movies. I started it to make a difference — to give voice to the stories the system tries to bury,' she said. Central to this mission is the support Douglas received from her mother, Irene Douglas, who was also wrongfully accused during the events that inspired the film. Throughout the entire ordeal, Irene remained a steadfast presence, standing by her daughter every step of the way. Her lived experience and strength not only informed the film's emotional depth but also served as a cornerstone in the formation of R.A.F's advocacy-driven vision. Spotlight on 'The System': A Film Rooted in Real-Life Injustice The System is R.A.F's most ambitious project to date. This emotionally charged courtroom drama is inspired by true events, focusing on the institutional failings of the foster care and family court systems. The film aims to portray the emotional and legal trauma endured by families unjustly torn apart, offering viewers a deeply personal yet broadly resonant narrative. According to Douglas, ' The System is not just a film. It's my truth, and it's the truth of thousands of families torn apart by bias and bureaucracy.' The story goes beyond dramatization — it's a call to recognize and confront a crisis that disproportionately affects underserved communities. The film also features Will Coleman, also known as Ghost Fresh, in a pivotal role. He portrays the character of Douglas' children's father, a role that further grounds the narrative in reality. His performance brings added authenticity and emotional complexity to the storyline, reflecting the broader familial impact of systemic injustice. Creative Collaboration Behind The System While Douglas serves as the writer, producer, and visionary behind The System, the film's success is also credited to a dedicated team of co-directors and production partners whose collective work drives the project's powerful message and cinematic impact. This collaboration includes: Each contributor brings their own unique vision and technical expertise to the table, enhancing the visual storytelling with authenticity and depth. Their work is a testament to the collective mission of R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC: using film as a vehicle for truth, community, and transformation. This diverse team approach not only broadens the creative lens but underscores the company's belief in shared authorship and local collaboration as central to justice-based storytelling. Blending Sound with Story: A Dual-Purpose Creative Engine R.A.F stands out for its dual approach — fusing independent filmmaking with original music production. The company integrates music into its storytelling not as an accessory, but as a fundamental narrative element. Each soundtrack is carefully composed to reflect the emotional tones and themes of the visual story. This multi-platform storytelling model gives musicians an equally prominent platform. Emerging artists across the Northeast and beyond have contributed to soundtrack compositions, allowing their voices to resonate within R.A.F's larger mission. 'We're creating films that heal, music that speaks, and a company that lifts the next generation of creators,' the company stated. Building From the Ground Up: A Black Woman-Owned, Community-Fueled Brand Douglas' leadership as a Black woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry is more than symbolic. It is structural to the way R.A.F operates. From hiring underrepresented talent to collaborating with local organizations, the company deliberately reinvests in communities that the industry often leaves behind. Her hands-on approach has enabled R.A.F to serve as a launchpad for numerous independent artists, filmmakers, and writers. These efforts have helped to create paid opportunities for creatives who otherwise lack access to mainstream production avenues. 'R.A.F is proudly Black woman-owned and independently operated,' Douglas notes. 'Our stories matter — and we won't wait for Hollywood to tell them. We're telling them ourselves.' Grassroots Reach, National Aspiration While R.A.F's foundation is deeply local, its ambitions are national. With The System nearing completion, the company is preparing for red carpet screenings and entries into major film festivals. Talks are already underway regarding distribution on major streaming platforms, aligning with R.A.F's goal to ensure these critical stories reach a broader audience. Plans for a nationwide impact campaign to accompany The System 's release are also in development. These efforts will include panel discussions, community screenings, and strategic partnerships with advocacy organizations to amplify the film's social justice message. Empowerment Through Storytelling: Changing the Narrative The success of R.A.F lies in its unwavering focus on impact. Each project begins with a question: 'Whose story isn't being told — and why?' The answer becomes a blueprint for not just a production, but a platform. Through film, music, and advocacy, R.A.F is building a storytelling ecosystem where art informs, inspires, and drives change. Douglas summarized her mission with clarity: 'Our stories matter, our pain matters, and through film, we can break cycles and rebuild truth.' About R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC (Rap-Arted-Flows) is an independent, Black woman-owned film and music production company founded by CEO Shaquana Douglas. Based on truth-telling and community collaboration, the company focuses on producing original films, documentaries, and music-based visuals that elevate marginalized voices and challenge systemic injustice. Its hybrid creative approach merges storytelling with social advocacy, creating opportunities for underrepresented talent and engaging audiences across platforms. Media Contact Shaquana Douglas Contact Info: Name: Shaquana Douglas Email: Send Email Organization: R.A.F Prod ENT Group LLC Website: Release ID: 89161166 If there are any deficiencies, problems, or concerns regarding the information presented in this press release that require attention or if you need assistance with a press release takedown, we encourage you to notify us without delay at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our diligent team is committed to promptly addressing your concerns within 8 hours and taking necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or facilitate the removal process. Providing accurate and trustworthy information is of utmost importance.
Wall Street Journal
16 hours ago
- General
- Wall Street Journal
What Fueled the Revolution
Mike Gonzalez writes that we 'must not forget what happened in the months after' George Floyd's death on May 25, 2020 ('George Floyd's Death Almost Consumed America in Revolution,' op-ed, May 24). We shouldn't forget what happened in the months prior either. In March the government ordered virtually every American to cease all normal human interactions. After more than two months of this, terrified Americans were shown a seemingly endless replaying of the terrible last moments of Floyd's life. Mass protests, contrary to the stay-at-home guidance that until then had been insisted upon, were then permitted or encouraged. This witches' brew of relief from months of isolation, fear of a new disease and fury at what people saw repeatedly on TV, undoubtedly contributed to the ensuing violence that Mr. Gonzales describes. The revolutionary moment didn't occur in a vacuum.
CTV News
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
From Catholic nun to NDP Leader: New documentary puts spotlight on Newfoundland's Lorraine Michael
David Gosine talks about the family-produced documentary on the accomplishments of former Newfoundland politician Lorraine Michael. A new documentary is putting Lorraine Michael in the spotlight. 'Lorraine' tells the story of Michael's real-life journey: from her Lebanese roots and childhood in an immigrant community to her life as a Catholic nun and eventually becoming Newfoundland and Labrador's NDP Leader. The documentary was co-produced and co-directed by Michael's cousin David Gosine. 'She's just lived this incredible legacy,' Gosine said. 'I didn't know a lot about that story.' The 15-minute documentary was filmed at Gosine's parents' house in St. Philips, N.L. 'We flew in, and we sat with Lorraine at my parents' kitchen table and we listened to her legacy, to her years from basically her childhood until today, the legacy that she lived, the social justice that she impacted and her real impact on not only the lives of Newfoundland and Labradorians, but Canadians as a whole,' he said. Lorraine Michael 'Lorraine' was filmed at David Gosine's parents' house in St. Philips, N.L. (Courtesy: Allison Basha) To this day, Michael continues her advocacy work and remains on a mission to build a more inclusive Canada. Gosine said it's an important story to tell. 'In this moment, more than ever, we have to really hold tight with social justice and understand that the stories of these folks who have already gone down these roads and trodden these paths to build equitable spaces for people that are struggling or are minorities is so important when there's so much noise to the contrary,' he said. Lorraine Michael The crew for the documentary 'Lorraine' is pictured at its filming location in St. Philips, N.L. (Courtesy: Allison Basha) The piece was filmed over the course of 16 hours but was edited in the following months. Gosine said he learned a lot through the process. 'I got to know a story of somebody who impacted my life a lot. I learnt that equity is not as straight forward as anyone thinks. I learnt that it's a beautiful thing to tell a story that is so profound.' Putting the documentary together was a family affair. Gosine's and Michael's connection other cousin, Allison Basha was his co-producer and co-director. 'When my cousin and I came to this realization that we wanted to produce a documentary, it was a very easy decision to choose Lorraine. She's just lived a tremendous life.' He said he hopes people take away a simple message from the documentary: every little thing counts. 'Every little thing in the road of making space for those who don't have space counts, and her story is just so inspiring for any generation to understand that the little things matter and the big things really will come,' said Gosine. The film will be featured next at the Lebanese Film Festival in Montreal on Tuesday. Gosine hopes to see it get picked up at festivals in Atlantic Canada as well. 'Lorraine' has already won a series of awards and has been selected to be featured at several festivals around the world.
Forbes
19 hours ago
- General
- Forbes
How To Move From Ally To Accomplice
From Ally to Accomplice: How to Lead as a Fierce Antiracist by Seena Hodges In From Ally to Accomplice, Seena Hodges pushes the reader to move beyond their comfort zone to do deeper work and take risks in supporting anti-racism. Hodges is the founder and CEO of The Woke Coach and leads anti-racist programming and trainings for clients inside and out of higher education. Her clients include Red Wing Shoe Company, the Walker Arts Center, and the University of Minnesota, among many others. I reached out to her to learn more about her perspectives, especially amid the current backlash against anything considered 'woke' or diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) focused. I wanted to know what inspired her to write her new book and how her personal and professional experiences shaped the book's message. Hodges shared, 'From Ally to Accomplice was born out of both urgency and a deep desire to help people move from intention to impact in their racial equity work. Over the years, I've seen many well-meaning individuals—especially white folks—who want to make a difference but don't know how, or are afraid of getting it wrong. Too often, allyship becomes a title people claim rather than a practice rooted in accountability and risk.' Hodges has spent much of her career facilitating conversations during which discomfort is necessary to spur transformation. She explained, 'I wrote this book to offer a path forward that's honest and accessible. It doesn't sugarcoat the work but doesn't shame people out of trying.' She added, 'My goal was to invite people beyond performative allyship into something deeper: a daily commitment to action, reflection, and systemic change.' Hodges included stories and insights in the book that are part of her experience as a Black woman in the U.S. She also shared stories of the many people she has worked with throughout her career. One of the book's central themes, which I was eager to unpack with Hodges, is the distinction between ally and accomplice. I was interested in how she defines accomplice in the context of racial equity work and why the shift is critical. She explained, 'An ally can—and often does—opt in and out. It's conditional. It's comfortable. It's often about optics.' On the other hand, according to Hodges, 'An accomplice takes risks. An accomplice puts skin in the game. They leverage their privilege to dismantle the very systems that benefit them, even when it costs them something: status, relationships, professional opportunities.' She believes this shift is essential because 'racism isn't polite. It isn't passive.' Hodges thinks that dismantling racism requires more than 'hashtags and book clubs.' Instead, it requires courageous and continual action. For her, 'Being an accomplice means understanding that liberation is collective—and none of us are free until all of us are.' Hodges is deeply invested in this work's emotional terrain, particularly the role of discomfort. I asked her how people can navigate this discomfort productively, without retreating or becoming defensive. She shared, 'Discomfort is not the enemy—it's the teacher. When we feel that gut punch of guilt, shame, or defensiveness, we have a choice: retreat into the safety of denial or lean into the opportunity for growth.' Hodges further explained her approach, 'I tell people all the time: the goal isn't to be 'right,' it's to be real. Be honest with yourself. Ask, 'Why is this hitting a nerve?' Practice pausing before reacting. Seek feedback, not validation.' To her, the most important strategy in becoming an accomplice is to show up. She believes that 'unlearning white supremacy is not about perfection—it's about persistence.' Many of Hodges' readers might be eager to 'do the work' but unsure where to start. I asked her what some of the first concrete steps someone can take to move from passive support to active engagement are. In the same real tone used throughout From Ally to Accomplice, she said, 'Start with yourself. Examine your own biases. Interrogate the spaces you move through daily—your workplace, your neighborhood, your friend circles. Who's missing? Who's being excluded? Then, do something.' The 'do something,' according to Hodges, might include saying something up when your colleague makes a racist comment, advocating for policy changes at work when you see systemic inequities, redirecting resources to organizations led by people of color, or, in some cases, giving up opportunities to make space for those who rarely get opportunities. Hodges is fierce in her advice that those who want to be anti-racist must 'commit to showing up consistently, not just when it's trending.' For her, 'It's a lifelong commitment.' The last question I asked Hodges was what she hopes readers carry with them after finishing the book, and how she hopes her book contributes to broader systemic change. She emphasized wanting readers to 'leave the book feeling challenged, not comforted. Inspired, but also unsettled. If you finish this book and think, 'Wow, that was a good read,' and go back to business as usual—I've failed.' She hopes that From Ally to Accomplice is 'a mirror, a tool, and a call to action.' Moreover, she wants it to live in readers' conversations, choices, and organizational leadership. She stated, 'If enough people stop playing it safe and start doing the hard, messy, necessary work of accompliceship—real, systemic change becomes possible.' For Hodges, this work is not merely about individual transformation. Instead, it is about 'collective liberation," and for her, it 'starts with each of us choosing courage over comfort, every single day.' Ultimately, Hodges does not offer comfort, which makes this book necessary and unique in many ways. She doesn't promise ease but talks about clarity, accountability, and direction. With her message, she offers her readers a powerful invitation to stop waiting for the right moment to act, and instead to begin the work wherever they are and with the resources they have.
The Guardian
a day ago
- Health
- The Guardian
Dining across the divide: ‘She said ‘woke' had gone too far'
Occupation Early retired primary headteacher Voting record A diehard Lib Dem, but will vote tactically and loves Labour's Cat Smith, who she says is a great local MP Amuse bouche She's a governor of two independent schools in Kazakhstan, one in its capital, Astana, and one in Almaty Occupation Geography lecturer Voting record Used to vote Labour, but was put off by their stance on the Palestinian cause and their attitude to the left. Now votes Green Amuse bouche Once, she and some flatmates made their own version of Findus Crispy Pancakes from scratch Emma She seemed very nice, very smiley. We were having a bit of banter outside straightaway. Sue The first two minutes were awkward, but once we had looked at the menu we didn't shut up. Emma We both had surf and turf. She ordered it and I had to ask the waitress how to use the tools to eat the lobster. It was delicious. Sue I had chocolate mousse for dessert, and Emma had raspberry and elderflower sorbet. It was beautiful; the whole place was gorgeous. Emma The main bone of contention was that she said 'woke' had gone too far. It was originally an African-American term that means being aware of structural racism. So to suggest it's gone too far is to suggest anti-racism has gone too far, that social justice has, which it obviously hasn't. It must be very frustrating for African Americans, that their language gets co-opted. It's important to remember who it belongs to and not let it be neutralised. Sue If by 'woke' you're talking about protected characteristics, then obviously I respect those; they are absolutely essential. But I feel it stifles free speech, and those who are marginalised become even more so. Emma Sue has worked in schools in a lot of really deprived communities. Her concern is that when you get this intellectual censoriousness of liberal identity politics, the people the left should be serving are excluded. Sue If you over-police and don't look at context, you won't have any idea where people are coming from; whether they might be receptive to changing their view. You have to really work to understand what it's like when you haven't got a voice. Somebody who hasn't had a privileged, middle-class education, who lives a hand-to-mouth existence – their reality is going to be polar opposite. Sue I bet Emma is an amazing lecturer. She speaks with such passion about the young people she's working with. And I was talking with equal passion about the children I've worked with – lack of school readiness is really striking. We had children whose socialisation, speech, potty training, just general physical strength, weren't where they should have been. They hadn't got the pincer grip needed to write because they'd used screens and simply swiped. Emma We're both quite anti social media; neither of us use it. We both think young people need to spend more time outside, and we've seen negative impacts in the cohorts we teach. Nowadays, students come to university and it will be their first time pushed into independence, very high stakes. I think it affects their happiness. They seem very stressed, and you shouldn't be stressed when you're 19 – you should be living your best life. Emma I work in the environment department at the university and I live in an eco-community, so all my friends and colleagues were saying: 'You've got to say this about net zero, you've got to say that.' And then I met Sue and she said: 'I've got an environmental science degree, I'm not against net zero.' Sue She thought I was going to be all 'Drill, baby, drill'. She said: 'Shall I tell you about my eco house?' And I said: 'Yes, please.' Emma I almost felt like I doing a Blind Date. We had loads of very personal conversations, and kept saying: 'This doesn't go in the paper.' We ended up going very deep. Sue We had so much in common. She's the type of person I would want to be friends with. She's absolutely authentic and I trusted her. Additional reporting: Kitty Drake Emma and Sue ate at Quite Simply French in Lancaster. Want to meet someone from across the divide? Find out how to take part
