African American film series to return to Flint Institute of Arts for 11th year

FLINT, Mich. — Communities First, Inc. will once again roll out the red carpet for Black filmmakers as the African American Film Series marks its 11th year at the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA).

The organization is partnering with the FIA to bring back this series which highlights the creativity, resilience and powerful storytelling of African American filmmakers.

The free community film series runs monthly from November 2025 through February 2026 at the FIA, 1120 E. Kearsley St. Each event begins at 5:30 p.m. with complimentary dinner, live music and gallery access, followed by the film screening at 6:45 p.m. and a post-film discussion led by experts and community voices.

This season’s lineup highlights powerful stories of strength, history, and identity, from hometown hero Claressa Shields in “The Fire Inside” to the fight for civil rights in “Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power.”

Film Series Schedule

• The Fire Inside — Nov. 13, 2025
  The inspirational true story of Claressa Shields, a Flint native who became the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing.
• Sing Sing — Dec. 18, 2025
  Based on true events, the film follows a wrongfully incarcerated man who finds solace and purpose through a prison theatre program.
• Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power — Jan. 15, 2026
  A documentary exploring how a Black-majority county in Alabama became a pivotal site for the civil rights and Black Power movements.
• James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen — Feb. 12, 2026
  A chef retraces the untold story of James Hemings, a man the enslaved by Thomas Jefferson, who is considered America’s culinary founding father.

“These films will spark conversations that strengthen understanding and connection across our community,” said Essence Wilson, Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc. It’s a joy to see neighbors, families, and friends come together to celebrate culture, creativity, and the many voices that make our stories so meaningful.”