How the Philadelphia Film Society Is Bringing Inclusive Cinema to Philly Youth

The Film Society Center, photo by PFS

As a child growing up in Philadelphia, I often felt like an outsider in the world of cinema. The films I enjoyed rarely reflected my experiences, and there were few spaces where I could see stories that resonated with my identity. Had there been a dedicated space showcasing films that mirrored my reality, it would have impacted my sense of belonging and self-worth.

Today, the Philadelphia Film Society (PFS) strives to fill that void for the city's youth. Jasmine Hawkins, the Director of Community Engagement at PFS, is an integral part of this mission. With a deep understanding of the transformative power of representation, she works to ensure that marginalized communities have access to films that reflect their diverse experiences.

One of PFS's initiatives, Jasmine works on is Black Cinema Week. This annual event celebrates the richness of Black storytelling by showcasing a curated selection of films that delve into the multifaceted experiences of the Black community. From historical dramas to contemporary narratives, the festival offers audiences a chance to engage with stories that are often underrepresented in mainstream media.

“I really have to credit our programming team there. They curate the films and then we work on the events to really facilitate a discussion … Sometimes we’ll have little mixers or trivia … it helps get everyone comfortable,” Jasmine said.

In addition to Black Cinema Week, PFS hosts free community screenings throughout the year. These events are designed to make cinema accessible to all, particularly in neighborhoods where resources are scarce. By removing the financial barrier, PFS ensures that everyone can experience the magic of film. 

The Film Society Center, photo by PFS

As a child growing up in Philadelphia, I often felt like an outsider in the world of cinema. The films I enjoyed rarely reflected my experiences, and there were few spaces where I could see stories that resonated with my identity. Had there been a dedicated space showcasing films that mirrored my reality, it would have impacted my sense of belonging and self-worth.

The importance of such initiatives is emphasized by the challenges faced by many children in Philadelphia. According to a report by Philabundance, the poverty rate for Black children is noticeably 42.2%. This further demonstrates why systemic barriers that hinder access to cultural resources exist, as lack of access becomes a cycle. Representation in film, too,  remains an issue. A study by the Geena Davis Institute found that Black girls and women make up only 6.1% of all characters in film, with a significant underrepresentation in leading roles. Programs like those led by Jasmine Hawkins are so vital as a result. Free screenings and Black Cinema Week don’t just offer entertainment, they also provide visibility, validation, and a chance at exposure. This is particularly necessary for young audiences who rarely see themselves reflected in the stories they consume.  

The Film Society Bourse Center, photo by PFS

As Director of Community Engagement, Jasmine explained the significance of her job and the need for diversity of film genres. "Black people are not a monolith. We’ve shown films of various genres to make that, like, clear for people. And we also show these films quarterly. So while we do have Black Cinema Week, there is, like, an ability to see these films year-round.” 

Through her work at PFS, Hawkins is not only bringing diverse stories to the forefront but also fostering a sense of community and belonging. By championing inclusivity and accessibility, she is helping to reshape the cinematic landscape of Philadelphia, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to see themselves in the stories told on screen. It is just as important, too, to showcase women of color across a wide spectrum of film genres. Are there theaters near you with similar initiatives? Do you feel like their curation of films is representative of the diversity in your community?