Power of Place Roadshow (film)

On Thursday, October 9th, the Community Center for the Performing Arts proudly presents a screening of the film “Power of Place” and panel discussion at the WOW Hall. Where We Goin’?: Power of Place: A Multimedia Experience Get ready for something bold, beautiful, and deeply resonant. The Power of Place Roadshow isn’t your average film screening — it’s an experience. It’s culture. It’s community. It’s a celebration of excellence, belonging, and Black brilliance. We will screen two powerful short films: Dear Young Black Portland – run time 7 min A visual letter from Ms. Sharon Gary-Smith, a beloved elder and former NAACP Portland President. Filmed by Devin Boss, and produced by Zoe Piliafas, this raw, deeply personal letter to the next generation, finds Gary-Smith the story of her family having their home stolen by the city through eminent domain as a child, and despite the loss continuing to chart new horizons in the sacred march for justice. Ms. Sharon refuses the role of gatekeeper. She opens doors to leaders of all ages because as she says – “she was once the one, who wanted to burn it all down.” She’s a fountain of wisdom, and her letter, penned with the help of award-winning writer Donovan Scribes, is not just a letter, but a rallying cry for all who demand a better future. Where We Goin’?: Power of Place – run time – 28 min Devin Boss is on a quest. And he wants you to join him as he explores this simple question: Where We Goin’? A millennial Black filmmaker and artist raised in the heart of the whitest city in America: Portland, OR, Boss ventures out to uncover the deeper truths that have shaped not just his city — but his very identity. —– Boss invites us all along for the ride as he explores the work of Black creatives, cultural stewards and changemakers – past and present – snatching the narratives back, about community resilience and innovation as he examines his roots, to dream of what’s next for him, and all the future ancestors. This episode finds Boss linking with multidisciplinary artist Intisar Abioto of Memphis, TN to discuss her groundbreaking curation of 69 Pacific Northwest creatives from the Diaspora at Oregon’s largest museum. Abioto and Boss also explore the artists’ Herculean 2022 effort to purchase the home of Portland NAACP co-founder, and all around badass Beatrice Morrow Cannady. The pair then connect with the folks powering the largest restorative re-development effort in the country, Albina Vision, as they rebuild the gentrifying epicenter of Portland’s vibrant Black community. Produced by: Devin Boss, Zoe Piliafas, Donovan Scribes, Elizabeth Stock There will be DJ SXLXMXN creating a vibe through the entire show, followed by a interactive panel that will include the local Eugene NAACP.