This event brings together activists, academics, and media makers to discuss the civic imagination implications of the recent release of Black Panther. The predominantly Black cast and crew, paired with a richly detailed setting in Africa, ensures Black Panther represents a historical zeitgeist both critically and commercially. The film flew past all expectations in terms of breaking box office records and connecting with audiences of all demographics. As in the comics from which the character springs, Black Panther tackles Hollywood’s diversity crisis by centering a narrative around African superhero T’Challa — the young prince (and eventual king) of the nation of Wakanda and the Black Panther. Ryan Coogler’s excellent direction and the star-studded cast bring to light a plethora of provocative themes and elements, thus we bring people together to this panel to ask: how can Black Panther help us reimagine the world of today and tomorrow?

Light refreshments will be served on a first come, first served basis.
 
This event is organized by Civic Paths, the Annenberg Innovation Lab, and the Civics and Social Media (CASM) Group with support from the Office of the Provost Collaboration Fund.

Moderators: 

• David Craig
• Joan Miller

Speakers: 

• Andrea Alarcon
• Rogelio Alejandro Lopez
• Azeb Madebo
• Tyree Boyd-Pates (California African American Museum)
• Brooklyne Gipson