Tuesday, May 2, marks the end of classes for University of Virginia students, including  146 undergrads enrolled in my Black Fire lecture course. Now in its 3rd year, the Black Fire course has remained an important part of our larger multimedia project on the history and experiences of African Americans at the University.  This year we taught about 340 students, finished three films, and had a chance to share our work with folks across the country. April was especially exciting as We Demand screened at the National Gallery of Art (https://www.nga.gov/content/ngaweb/calendar/film-programs/spring17/bch.html) and Fastest Man in the State was part of the Whitney Museum’s Biennial. After the Biennial, our friend Greg Tate took us to the home of the legendary filmmaker, Melvin Van Peebles.  Amazing time and conversation.

Looking forward to pushing ahead in the summer and next academic year.

On April 8-9, Fastest Man in the State will screen at the Whitney Museum as part of its Biennial Program. Co-directed by Kevin Everson and Claudrena Harold, Fastest Man in the State tells the story of a pioneering group of African Americans who integrated the University of Virginia’s athletic program during the 1970s. Much of the film centers on the experiences of Kent Merritt and Harrison Davis. Through scripted training exercises and drills, the film celebrates the visual beauty of athletic competition.