With mounting attacks on our most vulnerable communities, resources pulled away from the frontlines, and major cuts to public media, organizers and activists are stretched thin.
In this climate, grassroots organizers’ need to build relationships and mobilize their communities for change. At a time of digital overload, unplugging and coming together IRL has become one of the most important tools in an organizer’s toolkit. This is where local film screenings become invaluable—not only do they educate, they build community and inspire collective action to confront social and environmental threats.
Whether it’s the passing of a dangerous bill, or the construction of a new data center or pipeline, when there’s an immediate need to educate and mobilize communities, film has the ability to bring people in and move them to action.
Over Working Films’ 26 years doing this work, we’ve seen how film screenings can be crucial for sparking dialogue, disseminating new information, and rallying support to address urgent injustices. However, financial obstacles and capacity constraints can be obstacles for cultural organizing work.
That’s where we come in! Through Screenings That Work, Working Films is now offering mini grants to organizers across the United States who are seeking to host film screenings as part of their environmental justice efforts. By harnessing the power of film, we’ll help you amplify critical issues and bring your community together for collective action.
Use this simple application form to apply for up to $500 to cover hard costs associated with your event. Examples include funding for venue rentals, screening rights, screening equipment, marketing materials, and guest speakers. But you’ll get more than money to make it happen! Working Films’ expert team will guide you through the steps of creating an event that will be a transformative experience for attendees and connect them with opportunities for sustained action.
ELIGIBILITY
We invite organizers and activists based in the US and territories, who need that final support to bring a screening to life, to fill out the form. Requests exceeding $500 cannot be considered at this time.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Please note that we have limited resources and cannot accommodate all requests. Decisions will be made on a rolling basis while funds are available using the following set of criteria:
- Alignment with values of social and environmental justice.
- Intended audience. What is the potential to go beyond the choir? Is this audience directly impacted by these issues?
- Meaningful ways for the audience to take action and/or become involved.
- Commitment to completing an event debrief call with Working Films staff.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please email Mara Henderson, Impact Coordinator, at [email protected].
APPLY FOR THE SCREENINGS THAT WORK MINI GRANT
