This past weekend I went and saw the film The Birth of a Nation. As a creative, I make it a point to support other creatives. The film was nothing short of amazing. I cried, gasp, cheered, and reflected throughout the entire film. This was the first film where I walked out the theater and said absolutely nothing! About 20 minutes after watching the film I was ready to dialogue.

Feeling the intensity of the film, my friend and I sat for an hour discussing the themes and narratives throughout the film. The Birth of a Nation film is much needed. It is time for people of all races and cultures to WAKE UP…and start having more authentic conversations about injustices in the world. The film promotes the level of discussion that is needed when addressing race relations in America. This is the type of film that moves Black culture forward. From my lens as a Black woman, watching the movie inspired me.

Inspired in the sense of knowing my ancestors fought for me to be in this very position I’m in. Inspired in the sense that I know who I am, and I know where I come from. Thinking back on the day I visited the slave plantation where part of my family roots started, experiencing the narrative of Nat Turner in visual form was a full-circle moment.

From watching the film, what I know for sure is that we all have a little of Nat Turner spirit inside of us. When the moment arises for us to shift paradigms, and make progressive changes in our respected industries…we must rise to the occasion.

I don’t want to spoil the film, for those that have not seen the film yet. All I have to say is the film is a must see.

Until next time…

-Peach