The Black Cinema Series Presents "Wade in the Water: A Journey Into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture"

The Black Cinema Series, a collaborative effort between the Rochester Association of Black Journalists (RABJ) and the Little Theatre, will present "WADE IN THE WATER: A JOURNEY INTO BLACK SURFING AND AQUATIC CULTURE" on Wednesday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m. The screening will take place at The Little (Theater 1) in the East End District at 240 East Ave., Rochester, NY. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

This highly anticipated film is being showcased just ten days before the start of the surfing events at the 2024 Summer Olympics, scheduled to take place from July 27 to August 5 in Teahupo'o, Tahiti, a French overseas territory in the southern Pacific. The majority of the Summer Olympics will be held in Paris, France, from July 26 to August 11.

"WADE IN THE WATER" weaves together historical accounts and contemporary testimonials to highlight the rich 1,000-year-old tradition of Black surfing and aquatic culture, spanning from Africa to the Americas. The film aims to break down the racial barriers entrenched in conventional surf culture, while also exploring the current movement that seeks to inspire the next generation of Black surfers. This movement emphasizes equitable access to surfing in BIPOC communities, women's surf clubs, and the implementation of public policies that promote environmental stewardship and protection.

Following the film screening, there will be a panel discussion featuring esteemed guests. The Q&A session will take place via Zoom, with the moderator present in the Little Theatre. The panelists include:

- David Mesfin: Director

- Greg & Marie Rachal: Co-founders of Black Surfers Collective

- Sharon Schaffer: First Female Pro Black Surfer

- Nathan Fluellen: Founder of A Great Day in the Stoke

- Jalen McGill: Panel Moderator and Sports Director, 105.5 The Beat

Tickets for the event are available for purchase in advance online, at the box office during open hours, or at the door on the day of the screening. Admission prices are $11, with a discounted rate of $7 for seniors, students, and military personnel.

For further information about the film and to stay updated, please visit https://thelittle.org/wadeinthewater/ (https://thelittle.org/wadeinthewater/).