The Film Over Gun Violence Program has been visiting several high schools on St. Croix to encourage students to join the second year of its upcoming summer program, which kicks off the first week of July and runs through August. Schools visited so far include the St. Croix Educational Complex, the Center for Educational Growth, and CJM Homeschool.
The program is a partnership between Blue Tarp Productions, LLC, the Center for Educational Growth and the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. This five-week initiative teaches teens the fundamentals of filmmaking — both behind and in front of the camera – while raising awareness about gun violence prevention.
“So far, the films have received positive feedback from students,” said George W. Cannon III, director of the Film Over Gun Violence Program.
“When I was growing up, I didn’t know this was a path I could take,” said Cannon. “I see a lot of young people trying to find themselves. This is paradise, but we don’t always get to see the full range of opportunities available to us. At the Film Over Gun Violence Program, we want to show young people that filmmaking is a real avenue they can pursue. We want to open the door for them to be creative in this industry.”
The results of last year’s pilot program have been promising. Several students who participated will be continuing their film education in college after graduating this year.
Jessica Parker White, education coordinator at CMCArts, added, “This is a celebration of the hard work the students put in last summer, as well as a chance to raise awareness about the gun violence issues here on St. Croix and to recruit new participants for this year’s program.”
“CMCArts is thrilled to partner again with Blue Tarp Productions and CFEG to bring this dynamic opportunity to students,” she continued. “Based on the pilot, we saw strong enthusiasm from both students and the community — and a clear need for a program like this.”
“This program is specifically offered to high school students,” Parker White said. “So often, youth programs are aimed at younger kids. This one gives teens the chance to learn new skills while still having the flexibility to work part-time or enjoy their summer.”
Also present at the St. Croix Educational Complex stop was Damian Lang, a representative from the Office of Gun Violence Prevention. He addressed the students, saying, “We’re losing too many. I want to see you live. Not everybody can be a gangster — not everybody can survive the streets. It’s real out here.”
Sen. Clifford Joseph, who also attended, added, “In a small community like ours, we can keep praying for change — but if it’s a friend of yours, encourage them to understand that violence only brings more pain.”
For those wondering when they’ll be able to see the latest and past student-created films, Cannon says to stay patient — a screening experience is on the horizon.
“There’s something special about seeing a film in a theater. It’s an event — it’s an experience,” Cannon said. “We want to expand on that before releasing the films widely. I love that people are eager to watch, but I want them to see it during a screening.”
If your student is interested in applying to participate in the Film Over Gun Violence Program, click here. Space is limited.
For the time being, stay tuned to their platforms on Instagram, Facebook, and their website.
Special thanks go to supporters and sponsors Sayeeda Carter, Neighborhood Pharmacy, Caribbean Cinema, Community Foundation of the Arts, Ocean Point Terminals, and Viya. Also, partners Blue Tarp Productions, CFEG, and CMCARTS.
