Witness the transformative power of film as the Inthrive Film Festival when it makes its debut in Southwest Virginia May 2 and 3 at the Southwest Viginia Higher Education Center, Abingdon, Virginia. Inthrive is the nation’s only traveling festival dedicated to showcasing the talents and stories of incarceration survivors, This multi-day event is an opportunity to engage with compelling narratives, participate in thought-provoking discussions and celebrate the human capacity for growth and change. Admission is free and open to the public. Preregistration is requested for Friday’s reception. Secure your spot and learn more at InthriveFilmFestival.org/southwest-va.
All the films are created by or feature the authentic stories of people who have survived incarceration. The panels feature local incarceration survivors. There is also an opportunity for people to work with professionals to expunge a record.
“Society often overlooks the potential and contributions of those who have been incarcerated,” says David Smith, an incarceration survivor who founded and is the festival director of the Inthrive Film Festival. “This festival challenges that misconception by showcasing the remarkable work and amplifying the voices of individuals who have not only survived but thrived. We invite everyone to witness these powerful stories, engage with stories and people, and foster a greater sense of empathy and understanding for justice-impacted folks. Together, we can break down barriers and build a more inclusive society.”
Doors open May 2 at 6 p.m. Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and meet community partners. At 6:30 p.m., see a screening of “Songs from the Hole,” followed by a discussion with film creators, JJ’88 and Richie Reseda.
The following day the doors open at 10 a.m. The films begin at 11 a.m. with “Life Inside Shorts,” a collection of short films that portray what life is like while incarcerated. “Films on Transformation,” a selection of films that portray what life is like while incarcerated is shown at 12 p.m. At 1:30 p.m., “What These Walls Won’t Hold,” a panel discussion featuring local Virginians who have gone from incarceration to thriving, is held. This discussion also includes an award presentation by People, Inc.
The Inthrive Film Festival is collaborating with People, Inc, to bring these films to Southwest Virginia. This festival is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is encouraged for Friday’s event. For more details visit inthrivefilmfestival.org/southwest-va.
