My first trip to Cinemopolis was last Monday and it came with more perks than just a free pass to see an incredible documentary. Before the film, Mayor Svante Myrick gave came to talk to us. He explained his deep admiration for the featured individuals and he decided to create a day here in Ithaca to honor one of the progressive activists of early 20th century New York history. I actually witnessed the declaration of a new holiday. From here on in Ithaca, October 26th is Afrika Bambaataa Day! I took a couple of pictures of Mayor Svante and Afrika Bambaataa to the best of my ability (please excuse the picture quality… I had to zoom in a bit and try very hard not to be creepy)

Afrika Bambaataa at the discussion panel speaking about his work and about the film

The premise of the film was to convey the change from brutal, territorial gang life in the city to peaceful unification through the outlet of music. The movie explored the underlying expectations created by racism and social class in the 20th century as well as the process in overcoming these social expectations and create a more loving, friendly community.

Mayor Svante addressing the public and declaring the new holiday!

My favorite part of the evening was after the film though. We had the opportunity to meet the film’s director (Shan Nicholson), Mr. Bambaataa, as well as other individuals who made significant contributions to the field. They held a discussion section in which they spoke to struggles in the past as how they appear to parallel to the present. I took a picture of the discussion panel as well (again, ignore my inaptitude in photography).

On the far left of the photograph is Shan Nicholson and on the far right is Afrika Bambaataa.