FLINT, MI – Communities First, Inc. (CFI) is excited to announce the return of the African American Film Series for its 11th year, in partnership with the Flint Institute of Arts (FIA). This cherished community event invites audiences to come together and celebrate the creativity, resilience, and powerful storytelling of African American filmmakers. Free and open to all, the series continues to inspire, educate, uplift and bring people across Flint and beyond together through the shared experience of film.

“It’s been incredible to see how this series has grown and continues to bring people together year after year,” says Glenn Wilson, President and CEO of Communities First, Inc. “The African American Film Series is more than just a collection of films, it’s a space for connection, learning, and pride. We are deeply grateful to our community for embracing these stories and helping us celebrate the talent and creativity that make them so powerful.”

The 2025–2026 series will run monthly from November through February, with screenings scheduled for November 13 and December 18, 2025, and January 15 and February 12, 2026. All screenings will take place in person at the Flint Institute of Arts (1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint, MI 48503).

Guests are invited to begin the evening with access to the FIA’s galleries, a complimentary dinner, and live music starting at 5:30 PM. Screenings begin at 6:45 PM, followed by engaging post-film discussions led by experts and community voices who will unpack the themes and messages of each film.

From the hometown inspiration of the Claressa Shields story in The Fire Inside to the powerful story of redemption in Sing Sing, this season’s films offer a moving exploration of strength and identity. Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power sheds light on the courage and activism that shaped the Civil Rights Movement, while James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen uncovers the untold legacy of one of America’s first classically trained chefs. Together, these films celebrate resilience, history, and the enduring power of Black voices and stories.

“Each year, we’re reminded of how powerful storytelling can be in bringing people together,” says Essence Wilson, Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc. “These films will spark conversations that strengthen understanding and connection across our community. 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.”

Film Series Schedule:

The Fire Inside, November 13, 2025

The Fire Inside is the inspirational true story of Claressa Shields, arguably the greatest female boxer of all time. A high school Junior from Flint, Michigan, aided by her tough-love coach, Jason Crutchfield, pushes past all limitations to become the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. But even at the pinnacle of success, Claressa has to reckon with the fact that not all dreams are created equal, and the real fight has only just begun.

Sing Sing, December 18, 2025

A man named Divine G finds himself at Sing Sing, a notorious men’s prison, after being convicted guilty of a crime he did not commit. Struggling with his wrongful incarceration, he finds solace in the prison’s ragtag theatre troupe, where the opportunity for self-expression helps Divine and the other inmates find purpose, empathy, camaraderie, and strength. The narrative draws inspiration from true events.

Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power, January 15, 2026

The documentary focuses on the rise of citizen-led voting rights campaigns in Lowndes County, Alabama. A Black-majority town with no Black voters, Lowndes County consequently transformed into a hotspot for activist movements. Organizers of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) collaborated with local residents to take a stand against racial violence in the late sixties.

James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen, February 12, 2026

A curious chef uncovers the story of James Hemings – America’s culinary founding father and the enslaved property of Thomas Jefferson.

The series is sponsored in part by the Flint Institute of Arts, Dee Cramer Heating & Cooling, Fifth Third Bank, and Mid-Michigan NOW.

Each movie screening is free, and donations of $5 or more are encouraged but not required. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/AAFS2025

About Communities First, Inc. (CFI)

Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit Community Development Corporation. Headquartered in Flint, CFI serves over 35,000 community members across Michigan and Indiana. CFI’s mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing, and innovative programming. More information about Communities First, Inc. can be found at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.