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Thursday August 1 at 6pm

Join us for a showing of 3 short films followed by a discussion with the film writers Ngwatilo Mawiyoo & Chao Tayiana from Kenya.

An event hosted by the Department of Black Studies at Queen’s University, with support from the departments of English, Gender Studies, and Film & Media. Presented by The Cinema Society of Kingston.

This is a 100% free event open to all community members 16+:

Join us for a poignant and enlightening film screening event in honour of Emancipation Day. This free event is open to all community members aged 16 and above and offers an opportunity to reflect on the themes of heritage, loss, and the journey towards healing and restitution. Featuring a short film, Joy’s Garden and two short documentaries by Open Restitution, the film makers, Ngwatilo Mawiyoo and Chao Taiyana Maina will be in attendance to support thought-provoking conversation. Through these films, we aim to ignite discussions on the importance of heritage, the impact of loss, and the power of reclamation. Come and be part of an event that not only entertains but also educates and inspires.

Schedule:

  • 6:00pm – Arrival
  • 6:15pm – Event Start / Welcome
  • Short Film: Joy’s Garden
  • Discussion
  • Restitution 101: A History Of Theft
  • Restitution 101: A History Of Demand
  • Discussion

Joy’s Garden by Ngwatilo Mawiyoo

Synopsis: Edwin is abruptly promoted from absent father to sole caregiver of Joy, his seven-year-old daughter, following her mother’s death. Joy’s plants and presence disrupt Edwin’s home life, infuriating him when she crosses his all-important creature comforts: soccer and whisky. It’s only when he sees a drawing of Joy and her late mother in their old garden that he begins to understand what the plants mean to her, and finds it in his heart to make room for her in his world.

Restitution 101 – Episode 1: A History Of Theft by Chao Tayiana & Ngwatilo Mawiyoo

Synopsis: In this captivating episode, we embark on a journey through history, exploring the complex, violent, and manipulative ways in which heritage items of African origin ended up in Western museums and private collections. Join our experts, Syvlie Njobati and Ngwatilo Mawiyoo, as they unravel the intricate threads that connect the past to the present. Discover the hidden stories and untold truths about Africa’s cultural heritage and the imperative need for its return. This is the beginning of a series that aims to empower you with knowledge and ignite meaningful discussions on restitution in Africa.

Restitution 101 – Episode 2: A History Of Demand by Chao Tayiana & Ngwatilo Mawiyoo

Synopsis: In this episode, join our host, Ngwatilo Mawiyoo as she explores the journey of how Africans have reclaimed their cultural heritage over time. Unpack the pivotal moments and voices that have shaped the ongoing conversation on heritage restitution.

Series
Genre
Documentary

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