Narrated by comedian Wanda Sykes, short film explores environmental injustice and redevelopment in sinking Norfolk, VA
WASHINGTON – Hip Hop Caucus is thrilled to announce that its short film “Underwater Projects” has been selected for inclusion in both the Social Justice Now Film Festival and the DC Environmental Film Festival. The thought-provoking film is narrated by comedian Wanda Sykes and sheds light on the urgent need for action to address environmental justice issues impacting marginalized communities in Norfolk, Virginia and across the globe.
“Underwater Projects” takes viewers on a journey into the coastal urban flooding happening in the heart of Virginia’s largest economy. A historically Black public housing community and the local U.S. Naval base are among those grappling with the devastating effects of environmental degradation and climate change. Through comedy, animation, and stunning visuals, the 28-minute film explores the intersecting challenges of rising sea levels, poverty, and systemic environmental injustice, while also highlighting the resilience and activism of frontline communities fighting for a sustainable future.
“It is an honor to have ‘Underwater Projects’ showcased at the Social Justice Now Film Festival and the DC Environmental Film Festival,” said Liz Havstad, co-director of “Underwater Projects” and Managing Director and COO at Hip Hop Caucus. “We hope that this film will spark important conversations about intersectional environmentalism and inspire greater action for environmental justice.”
The Social Justice Now Film Festival showcases content that confronts racism and heightens awareness of the social and economic issues that negatively affect Black and Brown people in the United States.
“Underwater Projects” will be screened during the Social Justice Now Film Festival’s ‘Short Film Collection II’ presentation on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 7 p.m. PT at Sony Pictures Entertainment’s studio lot in Culver City.
The DC Environmental Film Festival is the largest and longest-running environmental film festival in the United States and aims to advance understanding and stewardship of the environment through the power of film. “Underwater Projects” will be screened in Washington, D.C. during this year’s festival which runs March 21-30, 2024.
For more information about the festivals and screening schedules, visit https://www.socialjusticenowfilmfestival.org/films and https://www.dceff.org.
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About Hip Hop Caucus
Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.
