August 16 & 30
What kind of leadership does it take to lead an anti-racist life?
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With Associate Producer Julie Manriquez
Part 1: 8/16/21- an introduction to SPARK, exploring the film
Part 2: 8/30/21 - an in-depth conversation with Julie Manriquez
By exploring systemic racism’s roots and remedies, SPARK hopes to inspire people to move from simply not being a racist, which does little to dismantle racism, to actively living an anti-racist life and becoming an ally to the Black community.
“Like fighting an addiction, being an anti-racist requires persistent self-awareness, constant self-criticism, and regular self-examination.”
“If each of us is willing to intentionally take on a bit more discomfort, to do our part to fight systems of injustice, then we might be able to build a world that brings genuine happiness, to all people.”
8/23 The Hearth: A Community Conversation: ”Bridging from the 8/16 <> 8/30 Essential Conversation”
“Everybody can’t be on the front lines, but everybody’s got to get off the sidelines.”
ABOUT SPARK
The tragedy of George Floyd’s death sparked a look at the historical context of deep-seated, systemic racism in America. Spark explores the root causes of this systemic racism and proposes remedies in public safety, policing, criminal justice, and social norms.
This 32-minute documentary is a call to action: Consider becoming a Black community ally. Spark, made by white allies, encourages recognition of unconscious bias and commitment to unlearning a historical narrative that redefined an entire race.
Awareness, listening, and daily practice can begin to reverse systemic racism. Until everyone is free, no one is free.
“I highly recommend this documentary that explores systemic racism and its roots…It’s so well-done, informative, and inspiring and free on Youtube!”
SPARK’S EVOLUTION
Spark began when San Diego couple Mary and Tom, shocked by the tragic death of George Floyd in their hometown of Minneapolis, marched in protest in June 2020.
Mary and Tom took photos, shot videos, and started making a short video for family. One thing led to another and news clips and historical context were added. The deeper they went, the more inspired they became. Soon, like-minded, “quaranteaming” neighbors joined them to make their first documentary.
While Tom and Mary had no experience, Tom had observed his son, Chris, produce short films. His son Trent, a lifetime racial justice advocate, played an important role in Spark’s creation as well.
The title Spark came from Associate Producer Julie who said, “The George Floyd protests are sparking not just fires but a nationwide moral awakening.” During Spark’s production, more and more collaborators came on board with the goal of shedding light on systemic racism in America.
THANK YOU
To all the black, brown, and white reviewers who gave precious time to the production of Spark.
This will register you for both 8/16 & 8/30 sessions.
Attendance at both is not required.
TERRY CHAPMAN INTERVIEWS ASSOCIATE PRODUCER JULIE MANRIQUEZ
SPARK USAGE
ORGANIZATIONS SEEKING RACIAL JUSTICE AND RACIAL SENSITIVITY EDUCATION
Corporations, Small Businesses, Schools, Spiritual Organizations, Fraternities and Sororities, Community Centers, Libraries, Government Agencies and Municipalities, Parent-Teacher Associations
Consider using Spark to help accomplish your organization’s racial justice and racial-sensitivity goals.
Spark is presented in complete, abbreviated, and mini versions to help conform to what your organization is hoping to accomplish.
“Outstanding, thoughtful, exceptional. Helps all of us to examine our conscience and call forth our unconscious biases.”
