Juneteenth and Father's Day... Wakanda Forever!

As part of the Juneteenth celebration weekend planned by Rome-Floyd NAACP, One Community United has partnered with the Rome International Film Festival and The Historic DeSoto Theatre Foundation to host a free showing of the 2022 blockbuster film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at the DeSoto Theatre on Sunday, June 18 at 3:30 pm. Donations will be gratefully accepted and concessions will be available for a charge to help defray the costs incurred by the three non-profits hosting the film. The DeSoto doors will open at 2:30 pm and the theatre accommodates 498 people. Attendees are encouraged to come early to ensure they get seats.

“We are developing a great partnership with RIFF and The DeSoto,” said Cheryl Jenkins, president of One Community United. “We are united in our belief that experiencing art together is a wonderful way to build community. And this showing during the Juneteenth celebrations and on Father’s Day is a great community and family event.”

About the film The Hollywood Reporter said, “it reflects universal themes about the importance of grief, fate, honor and duty — all themes that add new texture to viewers’ understanding of both the singular hero’s journey and the multiplied power of community.”

“We’ve admired the mission of One Community United for years, and recently have been working together on some very interesting film events that will take place in Floyd County throughout the rest of 2023 and 2024,” said Leanne Cook, Executive Director of RIFF, Inc.  “As T’Challa said at the conclusion of the first Black Panther, ‘more connects us than divides us,” and “in times of crisis the wise build bridges, while the foolish build barriers.’ Northwest Georgia needs more bridges and watching movies together is a proven way to help increase community spirit.”

The movie garnered numerous important awards after its release in 2022, including nominations for NAACP Image Awards, Critics Choice, Golden Globes, and five Oscar nominations. The $250 million movie was shot largely in Georgia, specifically Atlanta and Brunswick. 

Aside from the movie, attendees will be able to learn more about the mission and upcoming events for all three organizations. Attendees are also encouraged to donate to the organizations and to bring funds to pay for traditional movie treats and sodas or water.