Filmmaker Confronts Misperceptions of Black Women In Media at The 44th Congressional Black Caucus

BALTIMORE - Oct. 4, 2014 - PRLog -- “Black Girls Unscripted – My Journey, My Truth," an upcoming full-length documentary and national social campaign for girls of color, participated as panelists at the 44^th Congressional Black Caucus on Friday, September 26, 2014 at the Convention Center, Washington, DC. Founder/Director, Tiffany Gill, and Co-Producer, Elecia James, complimented an intriguing Youth Empowerment Forum titled Voices of Reason to discuss “Challenging Misperceptions of Black Women In The Media.” It was an animated discussion on the impact of media and ways youth use the power of their voice to challenge misperceptions and change the narrative.

Youth, as young as 12 years old, filled the room.  The panel was introduced by Moderator, Tina Pelzer, who empowers youth through her brand, F.A.V.O.R. (Faces and Voices of Reason). Alongside “Black Girls Unscripted”, was panelist Carvin Haggins, Grammy-winning producer and crusader for Rage Against The Ratchet (http://www.rageagainsttheratchet.com) and Recording Artist, Bria Marie.

Tiffany affirms to crowd, "Media images, and their perceptions, matter. It's important that we, especially young men and women, challenge the limited and oftentimes damaging representations we so often see of ourselves in mainstream media. We must make it our business to take control of the messages that are being delivered and create positive, multifaceted images that reflect our full humanity. No one tells OUR story better than we can..."

“Black Girls Unscripted” shared its promotional trailer. During the trailer’s final scene, it would be the remarks of a young interviewee that would immediately shift the sentiments in the room. After an attempted suicide and her justification of why the attempt, she was asked “How can adults help you?” She profoundly stated “Show me something different!” The tone of the forum, then, began to offer varied opinions on different issues with generous energy. The youth spoke candidly about how their self-esteem and personal aspirations were influenced by media.

Rage Against The Ratchet presented an earthshaking video displaying the results of internalized messages by lyrics. Discussion ensued around how the youth felt about the messages portrayed. Few stated the beat was enticing though they did not internalize the message. Carvin interjected. “With all due respect to various upbringings, this is a global issue. People all around the world are hearing the negative lyrics and equating it to black life, without knowing anything about you. Words have the power to become life, and, an international appeal to change this perception is greatly needed.”

Brittney O’Rourke of Ethical Music Entertainment challenged the room to Google the lyrics prior to repeating them into their psyche. The youth spoke life into the minds of other youth present. Inspired to take the mic, a young man empowered us in song. The inspirational rapper moved the room to a standing ovation.  The young adults pledged to become the new norm; to influence change within their schools, communities, and with local policy makers.

“Black Girls Unscripted – My Journey, My Truth” is a call to action campaign designed to educate, inspire and empower girls and women of color. Delivered in conjunction with the Black Girls Unscripted documentary (currently in production),  it aims to expose girls and young women, ages 11-24, to positive self-imagery, educational resources, cultural exploration and leadership opportunities. It also endeavors to encourage mentorship by positive female role models.

For information about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc.fudge.house.gov/. For additional details about “Black Girls Unscripted: My Journey, My Truth”, visit http://www.blackgirlsunscripted.org.  Press, sponsorship and partnership inquiries will be responded to at pr(at)blackgirlsunscripted.org.