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FOREWORD

XXIX. 2014 Black International Cinema Berlin
A Complexion Change / Transnational & Intercultural Diplomacy
An International Media Project (UNESCO)


Pathways to Enlightenment

"Only when lions have historians will hunters cease being heroes." African Proverb

Ignorance is Bliss?


I was perplexed by the results of my constant interest in books, newspapers, news programs on T.V. and radio, while although informative, almost always or at least quite often, seem to arrive at disappointing or unhappy conclusions.
After years of experiencing these outcomes, I wondered why I continued to look down seemingly blind or dead end alleys?
Was I a masochist or did I believe, if I just kept looking, matters would improve? I felt momentarily despondent, which is unusual for me and then I thought for a moment, perhaps Pharrell Williams' "Happy" was not the only escape or happiness route, but also perhaps a lack of knowledge or awareness might be the real pathway to blissful emotions?
Then, I thought of my parents, especially my father and of all the persons who for many years have supported me and seemingly placed their hopes and good will upon my sagging shoulders.
"I may not make it if I try, but I damn sure won't if I don't..." Oscar Brown Jr.
Ah yes, those words encompass an idea and direction, which is omnipresent in my life.
"Ain't nothin' to it, but to do it!" The words of wisdom from Brother Mario.
"Donald, you can rest when you're dead, this is no time for whining and crying and slipping down the pole! Get busy, stay busy until you reach the top or at least, higher than you are now!"
I have forgotten the author, but the words and intention still ring in my head!
So, I have to face the facts, not only in my head, but also to confront them within my emotions, and realize the struggle for dignity, justice and rewarding lives is an ongoing effort and knowledge contributes mightily in various ways to achieve these aspirations.
Sometimes, in a minute fashion or sometimes, in momentary leaps and bounds!
One never knows, do one?
But I understand and accept, ignorance is not an answer, perhaps not even a fleeting escape or excuse!
Therefore, we greet you here today as we have for many years, combining your and our dreams, aspirations, determination, knowledge, discipline and perhaps with a little luck, an ability to achieve our past, present and future goals, which we entitle,
A COMPLEXION CHANGE.
Peace on earth, good will to all humankind.

Thank You!


Prof. Donald Muldrow Griffith

 

MOTTOES

"I may not make it if I try, but I damn sure wonīt if I donīt..."
Oscar Brown Jr.

"Mankind will either find a way or make one."
C.P. Snow

"Whatever you do..., be cool!"
Joseph Louis Turner

"Yes, I can...!"
Sammy Davis Jr.

"Yes, We can...!"
Barack Obama

 

Prof.  Donald Muldrow Griffith

Embassy of the United States of America


euromight

wave magazine

united against racism

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African Women in Europe

 
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Black International Cinema Berlin
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Black International Cinema Berlin

 

 
Nomination
German Prize for
Civic Engagement 2014
 
Foreword
Prof. Donald Muldrow Griffith
Grußwort by the
U.S. Cultural Attaché

Katharina Göllner-Sweet
 
Passing of Chinua Achebe
Ursula Troche
FESTIVAL IMPRESSIONS
Marion Kramer
Amir Kaufmann
Thomas M. Wendt
 
 
 
XXIX. 2014 Black International Cinema Berlin

A Complexion Change
Transnational & Intercultural Diplomacy
An International Media Project (UNESCO)

XXIX. 2014
Black International Cinema Berlin

"Pathways to Enlightenment / Wege zur Erkenntnis"
May 7-11

"Footprints in the Sand?" Exhibition
July 1 - August 31, 2014

Venue: Rathaus Schöneberg (city hall)
John-F.-Kennedy-Platz,
10825 Berlin/Germany

XXIX. 2014 Black International Cinema Berlin