The organization Supreme Street recently sponsored Project Selma NOLA, a program that gives inner-city youth in New Orleans the opportunity to see the critically acclaimed Ava Duvernay-directed film Selma.
Rolling out spoke to Supreme Street founder Lawrence Parker about Project Selma NOLA.
Why was it important for you to sponsor children from New Orleans to see the show?
It was important, not only for New Orleans children, but black children everywhere to see Selma because these are the stories that are not being taught in our schools and if they are, they are not explained in detail or accurately. I feel it is important that we all take the leadership role in making sure our youth learn our history; the correct history.
How did this idea of screening Selma for free in New Orleans come about?
I feel that providing a free screening of Selma will eliminate the reason of not seeing the movie. No excuses. In addition, it’s just great to help parents who may not have the means to send their children to the theater.
What was the community’s response to your freely giving them the opportunity to see the film?
The community was very receptive and appreciated the opportunity. They brought their children out in numbers, they sent video of their children’s responses to watching Selma, and they even asked for me to continue similar enriching events in the future. Having the chance to watch a powerful movie about our history, for free, you can’t beat that!
What about community service in New Orleans do you find rewarding?
Great question. I most definitely find people’s smiles and their desire to continue working to improve the conditions of our communities rewarding. But in addition to the reward, I feel conviction to help the next generation. It’s up to us to stand firm with helping our youth develop knowledge of self. I wake up with hopes that others will see my diligence, and my brothers and sisters will feel compelled to join.
What does the New Orleans community need that the world might not know?
I feel the New Orleans community needs more job opportunities, after-school mentoring programs, and more art programs. Like most cities around the world, we need parents to get involved in what their children are being taught in class. I remember my mom showing up to school so many times asking questions, I thought she was taking the class! But she would also show up to my park football game and cheer me on. Parents have to take a vested interest in their child’s future. There has to be more of that in New Orleans, as well as Chicago and many other cities.
What upcoming events are you producing this year in New Orleans?
Right now, I’m working on my SXSW showcase in Austin, Texas, The Peace Tour Music Festival, and the sixth annual NOLA Hip-Hop Awards.
Describe the music scene of today’s New Orleans.
New Orleans’ music scene is the best in the world. We have our own culture, sound and style. It’s vibrant and can go from happy to sad in one record. We are an emotional people and you can hear it in our music. From the bounce music, second-lines with various jazz bands, Trombone Shorty to the lyrics in a Jay Electronica, Frank Ocean, or Lil Wayne record. We are exceptional!
View photos from the event in the gallery.
