BIFF Shorts: Racial Justice in View

Nonfiction and narrative shorts that shine a light on race, (de)colonialism, and inequity in the US, Canada + sovereign Indigenous Nations. 97 minutes.

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"Six Winters Gone Still"

Justin Emeka (Dir), 10 minutes, USA, Western New York Premiere

A reimagining of a scene from William Shakespeare’s classic play Richard II in a contemporary Black cultural context. Henry Bolingbrook, a young Black man who was recently convicted of a petty crime, is excessively sentenced to six years in prison. This is the morning he is to report to jail to begin serving his sentence.

After struggling to say goodbye to his mother, Henry’s older cousin picks him up to take him to the penitentiary. On their way, they take a detour to prepare his mind for incarceration. "Six Winters Gone Still" reveals the loss of innocence for a generation of Black men harshly imprisoned and the impact of their absence on their families.

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"Our Longhouse"

Maurice John, Jr. (Dir), 5 minutes, Onödowá’ga:’(Seneca Nation of Indians – Allegany Territory)/USA, Buffalo Premiere

Director Maurice John, Jr. in attendance.

A grassroots community effort to construct a traditional Iroquois longhouse. The "Living Longhouse" project is currently housed in Salamanca, NY at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum / Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center.

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"Two Wars: The Road to Integration"

Sean Donovan + Steven Tedesco (Dirs), 22 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Co-directors Sean Donovan + Steven Tedesco in attendance.

A short film documenting segregation and racism in the United States military since 1775. Based on an exhibit at the Buffalo Naval Park.

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"Indigenous Resistance: Now and Then"

'Wáats'asdiyei Joe Yates (Dir), 15 minute, USA, Western New York Premeire

We explore how it was for our people to go through statehood, blood quantum, ANCSA, boarding schools, stripping our language and dance away, and all that has done to our mental health. With that, we try to have a hopeful spin on this narrative and show how resilient our people are.

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"Native Hope Champions: Riding for the Missing"

Frank Blanquet + Sahar Khadjenoury (Dirs), 10 minutes, USA, New York Premiere

The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls pandemic is a widespread crisis that primarily exists under the radar. At the Indian National Finals Rodeo, or INFR, participants used their platform to shed light on this issue.

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"Wallowing Bull"

Noam Sol Azouz + Dan Lior (Dirs), 5 minute, USA, New York Premiere

This short explores the cultural significance of the American bison. The bison, which was nearly extinct by the end of the 19th century due to systematic extermination, holds a special place in the hearts of many Native American tribes. Shot on location in the Wind River reservation, Indigenous singer-songwriter Christian Wallowing Bull works to bridge the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous perspectives.

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"I Am Kanaka"

Genevieve Sulway (Dir), 15 minutes, United Kingdom, New York Premiere

With a dark history, 5% speaking the native language and 10% living in poverty, Hawaii is in danger of losing its traditions forever. “I am Kanaka” gives a glimpse into the future with Kaina Makua’s non-profit program teaching Hawaiian language, sustainability and life skills to disadvantaged indigenous kids aged 5-20.

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"Standout"

Danielle M. Fuller (Dir), 15 minutes, USA, New York Premiere

Director Danielle M. Fuller in attendance.

After a video of 15 year old Maya's best friend--Jayla-- getting into an argument with a teacher over a racially insensitive remark goes viral, the two must find a way to work through the fallout: from increased media attention, whispers at school, but yet most difficult the silent rift within their friendship.