Kentucky Muse: Coal Black Voice (Documentary)

As part of the International African American Museum’s (IAAM) IAAM Somebody Film Series, we invite you to join us for a screening in our theater of Kentucky Muse: Coal Black Voices. Our Film Series showcases films that highlight themes and topics related to African American history. 

The Affrilachian Poets, an ensemble of African-American and minority writers from Appalachia and the South, challenge the notions of an all-white region and culture and celebrate their African heritage and rural roots. Their work gives voice to the pleasures and power of family, land, good food, artistic community, music, and transformation.

The ensemble of African-American writers challenge simple notions of an all white Appalachian region and culture while drawing on traditions such as the Harlem Renaissance, the Black Arts Movement, and experiences of the African Diaspora. The poetry of the Affrilachian Poets celebrates their African heritage and rural roots while encompassing themes of racism and Black identity. In this documentary they give voice to the pleasures of family, land, good food, artistic community, music and transformation.

Coal Black Voices was produced with support from the KET Fund for Independent Production, The Wexner Center Media Arts Program, The Ohio State University, Kentucky Arts Council, Ohio Arts Council, Kentucky Humanities Council, Ohio Humanities Council and Media Working Group.

This is a “must see” for those interested in marginalized Black writers’ voices from a region of the United States not often highlighted in national conversations.

Ticket purchases include complimentary popcorn, refreshments, and snacks.