Our festival is a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of cultures that converge in Colorado, showcasing cinematic works that illuminate the movement of peoples and the richness of communities across the globe. From the ancient Greek origins of the term ‘diaspora’—meaning ‘to scatter about’—we draw inspiration to explore stories of migration, identity, and belonging through the art of cinema.
As an initiative of the Askkanwii Filmmaking Hub Incubator, a nonprofit organization based in Denver; the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding and connection. Through a curated selection of films, documentaries, shorts, and panel discussions and workshops; we invite audiences to embark on a journey of discovery—a journey that reveals the beauty and complexity of human experiences, both near and far.
The mission of the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is to curate a dynamic selection of diasporic films, documentaries, and panel discussions and workshops that serve as windows into diverse cultures and experiences. Through the power of cinema, we aim to foster empathy, provoke thought, and inspire dialogue, allowing audiences to explore the complexities of identity, migration, and belonging. By celebrating the voices of BIPOC filmmakers, underrepresented communities, and marginalized groups, we strive to create a platform that amplifies diverse perspectives and promotes cross-cultural understanding and connection.”
The Colorado Diasporic Film Festival envisions a vibrant cultural tapestry where borders blur and human connections transcend geographical limitations. By showcasing compelling cinematic works from around the world, our festival aspires to ignite curiosity and curiosity in audiences, expanding their understanding of global diversity and interconnectedness. Through our inclusive programming, we aim to create a welcoming space where all voices are heard and valued, enriching the cultural fabric of our community. By bridging distances and fostering empathy, the festival seeks to inspire a sense of unity and appreciation for the rich mosaic of identities that define us as individuals and as a society.
The Colorado Diasporic Film Festival is committed to serving a diverse and inclusive community, with a particular focus on amplifying the voices of BIPOC filmmakers, underrepresented youth, women, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. Our festival strives to create a welcoming and accessible environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel empowered to share their stories and perspectives. By showcasing a wide range of cinematic genres and styles, including documentaries, feature films, shorts, and more, we aim to engage audiences of all ages and interests. Through our programming, we seek to celebrate the richness of cultural heritage and promote dialogue, understanding, and solidarity among communities in Colorado and beyond. Join us as we embark on this cinematic voyage, celebrating the diversity that enriches our communities and deepening our appreciation for human experience. Through the Colorado Diasporic Film Festival, we invite you to explore, connect, and celebrate the power of storytelling to unite us all.
Diaspora is a term that describes a large group of people who share a regional or cultural origin but live away from their traditional homeland. The term comes from an ancient Greek word that means “to scatter about”. Diasporas can be the result of immigration or forced movements of people. The people of a diaspora spread their culture as they move.