Ghost of Lost Cause Screening at Belcourt Theatre and Producers Announce $45000 for Grassroots Justice-Based Organizations in the South
Nashville, TN — Ghosts of a Lost Cause, a compelling documentary that delves into the enduring effects of the Lost Cause narrative on American society, will be screened at the iconic Belcourt Theatre on September 24, 2024. This free screening, sponsored by local benefactors and the filmmakers, will be emcee’d by Dr. MarTeze Hammonds, Chief Diversity Officer of Purdue University and Sharon Kay, General Manager of Jazzy 88.1 WFSK Radio. Representative Justin Pearson will deliver a virtual introduction, highlighting the thematic relevance of Ghosts of a Lost Cause to Tennessee. He will explore how the film’s exploration of history and memory resonates with civic engagement and community leadership, inspiring reflection and action on issues that continue to shape our society. A reception and panel discussion centering the contributions and perspectives of black women leaders in justice movements at AB Studios will follow. Panelist will include:
Jess Williams, Director of Development and Marketing, The Equity Alliance
Kaymi Butler, Executive Director / Founder, Black Lemonade
Ty Murray, Director of Art and Communications, The Bottom
Crystal Fox, Executive Director / Founder, Mayfield Minority Enrichment Center
Michelle Neal, Immigration & Human Rights Attorney, The Law Offices of Michelle Neal
The documentary provides an intimate portrayal of Murray, Kentucky's struggle to relocate a Confederate monument amid the Black Lives Matter movement. By uncovering the personal stories and societal challenges tied to this struggle, Ghosts of a Lost Cause prompts viewers to confront the ghosts of the American Civil War and their lingering effects on modern communities. The film’s narrative not only highlights the obstacles faced in historical memory but also serves as a catalyst for dialogue and action toward justice and equity.
“We are excited to present Ghosts of a Lost Cause to the Greater Nashville Community and spark crucial conversations on history, memory, and the lingering effects of the Lost Cause narrative” said Gerry Seavo James, the film’s executive producer. “Our mission is to leverage this film as a catalyst for change—encouraging audiences to engage actively in reshaping their communities into inclusive spaces that confront discrimination and dismantle institutions and environments rooted in inequality.
In alignment with the film's message of social justice, the filmmakers, together with local benefactors, are proud to announce the IDEAS grant program totaling $45,000 to support grassroots organizations across the South. (IDEAS stands for Identify, Dismantle, Empower, Advance, and Sustain, reflecting our commitment to fostering transformative change). This funding aims to bolster the efforts of local groups dedicated to justice and equity, including:
“The highlight of this work has been bringing people together and giving back to communities and places that have shaped me. I’m proud to be associated with the leaders in this community and look forward to advancing the unique missions of each” said producer Sherman Neal II.
The screening event will take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. To RSVP and view the full list of events, please visit www.ghostsofalostcause.com. Follow updates about the screening and film on Facebook at Ghosts Of Lost Cause Film and on Instagram at @GhostsofalostCauseFilm.
