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Cleveland Public Library (CPL), in partnership with YWCA of Greater Cleveland and Sankofa, will host a free screening of The Contradictions of Fair Hope on Saturday, September 8, 2012, at 2:00 p.m. in the Louis Stokes Wing Auditorium of CPL on East 6th Street and Superior Avenue. The documentary by S. Epatha Merkerson and Rockwell Metcalf highlights one of the last remaining African American benevolent societies in Uniontown, Alabama.
“This film has the potential to spark dialogue and discussion in our community, and we’re excited to host these celebrated filmmakers and their captivating film,” said Felton Thomas, Director of CPL.
Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg, The Contradictions of Fair Hope highlights a long-forgotten and fascinating aspect of American history when newly freed slaves responded to the shock of Emancipation by forming “self-help” organizations called benevolent societies to help ease the transition from slavery to freedom. The film centers on the “complex and morally ambiguous world” of The Fair Hope Benevolent Society, which has become a flashpoint for fiery debate on the role of the annual “Foot Wash” celebration. A discussion with the filmmakers will follow the screening.
Ms. Merkerson is best known for her portrayal of Lieutenant Anita Van Buren on NBC’s Law & Order. She received an Emmy, Golden Globe, SAG, and Image Award for her performance as Nanny Crosby in the HBO movie Lackwanna Blues. She can also be seen in Steven Spielberg's upcoming film Lincoln and in the comedy We The Peeples.
Mr. Metcalf is Vice President and Chief Counsel at Amerprise Financial, Inc., where he concentrates on broker-dealer, marketing and banking law. He is co-author of the "Practical Guide to Broker-Dealer Regulation", and he obtained a 2008 U.S. Patent for a "System and Method for Dividing a Remittance and Distributing a Portion of the Funds to Multiple Investment Products."
Parental discretion is advised. Portions of this film may not be suitable for younger audiences.
For more information about this event, contact Cleveland Public Library’s Outreach and Programming Services Department at 216-623-2921 or visit contradictionsoffairhope.com
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