Respectfully
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Teen
Respectfully is about the empowering journey of a Black AP Bio student who leans on her ancestors for support when she is blocked from entering the classroom by her white teacher. She won't be devalued or diminished because of how she looks because she is, in fact, her ancestor's wildest dreams.
Respectfully
Los Angeles, California | Film Short
Drama, Teen
1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $10,475 for post-production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
62 supporters | followers
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Respectfully is about the empowering journey of a Black AP Bio student who leans on her ancestors for support when she is blocked from entering the classroom by her white teacher. She won't be devalued or diminished because of how she looks because she is, in fact, her ancestor's wildest dreams.
About The Project
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Keisha is eager to start AP Bio and rushes to class but when she arrives she is greeted not with smiles and welcomes but with questions by her white teacher. How can I help you? What class are you looking for? Keisha assures her teacher that she is in the right place but now her teacher wants her name to check against her class list. Something she didn’t do with any of the other students? No questions and no checking. Keisha must make a difficult decision. Give her name and accept the injustice or stand up for herself and call out the teacher’s bias. A tough decision for any teenager. Luckily, Keisha can lean on the guidance of her ancestors who are always by her side...literally.
The data is clear, black girls are disciplined more harshly, suspended and expelled more often and more likely to have the police called on them while in school. The story is actually based on a very similar experience my wife had. It shows how, on the first day of school, before you’ve entered your class or even said a word, your white teachers can judge you to be less capable and less deserving than your white counterparts. It also shows how you can stand up for yourself in the face of injustice, even when it seems like you're all alone. More importantly, it's full of hope, joy, humor, self worth and two of the coolest spiritual guides brought to screen since Gandelf and The Fairy Godmother.
Respectfully C.A. Barrow - Producer
I was immediately drawn to the script in part because it reminded me of my own natural hair journey. When black women can see themselves on screen taking up space it can help us envision a world where we don’t have to shrink for anyone.
To be a black woman is to be unfairly judged. Respectfully gets right into the crux of this shared emotion. I knew it was a story that deserved to be seen.
After reading the script for Respectfully, I knew it had all the elements of a meaningful film. This coming-of-age drama sprinkled with humor and magic is a very real look into the types of discrimination black girls face in our school system. I wanted to tell a story that let’s black women feel seen and empowered.
Black stories and the dreams of the people who came before us deserve to be on screen. I feel this story addresses Blackness as a holistic experience; the ethereal highs of being connected to one's ancestors and the modern-day lows of having to engage in white supremacy. Keisha’s experience is similar to so many black women I know and I’m honored to tell a story that calls for change.
In 2020, Matthew A Cherry won the Oscar for Best Animated Short for his film Hair Love. The film “centers around the relationship between an African-American father, Stephen, his daughter, Zuri and her hair.” During his acceptance speech, Cherry (the director) wished to create an ode to black hair in the animated space. As art turns a mirror on life, the animated space is a reflection of the institutionalized racism many black women experience.
A study done by the 2021 Dove CROWN Research Study for Girls found the following:
53% of Black mothers, whose daughters have experienced hair discrimination, say their daughters have experienced race-based hair discrimination as early as 5 years old.
86% of Black teens who experience discrimination state they have experienced discrimination based on their hair by the age of 12. 100% of Black elementary school girls in majority-white schools who report experiencing hair bias and discrimination state they experienced the discrimination by the age of 10.
Through a coalition with several organizations and policy makers, the CROWN act which stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” is a law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination, which is the denial of employment and educational opportunities because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including braids, locs, twists or bantu knots. At this time, it’s only been passed in 8 states.
Respectfully seeks to help demonstrate to generations of black women who have faced discrimination and the story of one vocal black girl, who with the help of ancestors, has the power to take back her self-respect.
These are some of the festivals we are hoping to be a part of this season. We may have already been accepted to one or three but we're not at liberty to say just yet!
We are seeking 13K to cover post-production and finishing costs. It will also help with travel, accommodation, marketing and event costs on the festival circuit. A small, dedicated team worked to make this film a reality and your support will help bring the product of their hard work across the finish line. Thank You!
Please pledge, share and follow. Every action counts. Thank you so much from the Respectfully team!
As we reach out to our network of friends be sure to reach out to yours. Not sure how? Check out some shareable posts below.
I just supported #respectfullythefilm a coming-of-age drama sprinkled with humor and magic. The film is a very real look into the types of discrimination black girls face in our school system. Pledge to support the post-production campaign on @seedandspark today
In “Respectfully,” a black AP Bio student leans on her ancestors for support when she is blocked from entering the classroom by her white teacher. #respectfullythefilm Follow, pledge and share today. tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Pledge to “Respectfully” because black stories and the dreams of the people who came before us deserve to be on screen! tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Respectfully highlights ethereal highs of being connected to one's ancestors and the modern-day lows of having to engage in white supremacy. Support the film today tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Color Correction
Costs $2,800
Gotta bring out the brilliant colors that are hiding in the RAW footage.
Post Sound Edit & Mix
Costs $500
Bad sound ruins films. We want great sound!
Composition
Costs $500
We need this original composition to enhance the emotional impact of the film.
Finishing
Costs $500
The final exports of the film formatted to our many projection needs
Submissions
Costs $1,200
Help with the costs of entering the festivals
Festival Expenses
Costs $7,500
Airfare, lodging, travel, food! Your donations will help offset some of these festival expenses
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Desirae (Des) Lee is a multi-media journalist, photographer and filmmaker from Jacksonville, FL who loves sunshine. She is a Blackhouse fellow, a Facebook SEEN Initiative grant winner, and has had art installations exhibited in Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. In 2021, she completed a film residency in Ghana done in partnership with the Library of Africa and the African Diaspora (LOATAD). Des’ goal is to always tell honest stories. She strives to create art which celebrates vulnerability, finds beauty amongst the mundane, and portrays the diversity of black people. She holds a BS from the University of Florida and a MFA in Film from Howard University.
C.A. is a Barbadian-born film producer and a graduate of Howard University’s Masters Film program. C.A. has always been fueled by curiosity, imagination and the need to accurately represent people of color and their communities onscreen. It is these pillars he leans on when choosing projects to support. When he isn’t working you can find him hiking along the East Coast, traveling or immersed in an architectural magazine. C.A. co-wrote ‘Respectfully’ with Kevin Johnson and has assembled a talented and diverse team of creatives to bring the story to life.
Michael Cooke is an award-winning cinematographer from Atlanta, Georgia. Michael's credits span across the commercial space to narrative to documentary. He got his start in 2007 as a Director of Photography lensing some of hip-hop's biggest names. Michael’s goal is to carefully craft images that will remain etched in viewers' minds for years to come.
Grace Nambo is a young actor whose passion for art pushes her towards her goals. "I am grateful that I got to be apart of this film that portrays such a relatable character and speaks on young black women's truth." While managing her first year of college and acting she is able to bring life to characters in her own way. "Playing a character like Keisha keeps a fire in me bright."
Shiro Kihagi is a New York based actress who comes from a strong theatre arts background. She is just as at home on screen however, turning in several electrifying performances already. When she isn't wowing audiences as a thespian she loves to put her culinary arts degree to use by cooking up delicious dishes at home.
It only makes sense that the same little girl that wanted to be a WWF wrestler would, somehow, still find a way to becoming a top tier entertainer. With credits in film, television and onstage, Erin has quietly been making a name for herself in the acting world. A name that isn't going to be quiet much longer with bigger projects coming and the same dedication and skill that she brings every single time.
Molly Samson is a treat to watch. Whether it's doing a ditty and a dance in a musical or stealing scenes on the stage and screen, we can't help but watch. Then she's disappearing into roles and we don't even know it's her because for Molly, it's always about the story and never about her and that's why she's great. But what do you expect from someone who used to drive a bus and play the saxophone? Unfortunately (and safely) never at the same time!
Matthew McGloin is an actor-musician based in Manhattan. His NY/Off-Broadway credits include The Hello Girls (OCR, Prospect Theater Company/59E59), Bastard Jones (The Cell), CasablancaBox (HERE Arts), Tectonic Theater Project, Abingdon Theatre Company. Select Regional: 2 Pianos, 4 Hands (Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park), The Play That Goes Wrong (Repertory Theatre St. Louis), Murder for Two (Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre), Beautiful Star (Triad Stage), The Lieutenant of Inishmore (Signature Theatre), Misalliance, Cinderella (Olney Theatre Center), As You Like It (Folger Theatre). TV/FILM: Primal Instinct (Investigation Discovery), The Food That Built America (The History Channel), Car Trouble (Columbia University), Wrong Place, Right Time (NYU). www.matthewmcgloin.com // @jackie_of_all_traits
Current Team
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Keisha is eager to start AP Bio and rushes to class but when she arrives she is greeted not with smiles and welcomes but with questions by her white teacher. How can I help you? What class are you looking for? Keisha assures her teacher that she is in the right place but now her teacher wants her name to check against her class list. Something she didn’t do with any of the other students? No questions and no checking. Keisha must make a difficult decision. Give her name and accept the injustice or stand up for herself and call out the teacher’s bias. A tough decision for any teenager. Luckily, Keisha can lean on the guidance of her ancestors who are always by her side...literally.
The data is clear, black girls are disciplined more harshly, suspended and expelled more often and more likely to have the police called on them while in school. The story is actually based on a very similar experience my wife had. It shows how, on the first day of school, before you’ve entered your class or even said a word, your white teachers can judge you to be less capable and less deserving than your white counterparts. It also shows how you can stand up for yourself in the face of injustice, even when it seems like you're all alone. More importantly, it's full of hope, joy, humor, self worth and two of the coolest spiritual guides brought to screen since Gandelf and The Fairy Godmother.
Respectfully C.A. Barrow - Producer
I was immediately drawn to the script in part because it reminded me of my own natural hair journey. When black women can see themselves on screen taking up space it can help us envision a world where we don’t have to shrink for anyone.
To be a black woman is to be unfairly judged. Respectfully gets right into the crux of this shared emotion. I knew it was a story that deserved to be seen.
After reading the script for Respectfully, I knew it had all the elements of a meaningful film. This coming-of-age drama sprinkled with humor and magic is a very real look into the types of discrimination black girls face in our school system. I wanted to tell a story that let’s black women feel seen and empowered.
Black stories and the dreams of the people who came before us deserve to be on screen. I feel this story addresses Blackness as a holistic experience; the ethereal highs of being connected to one's ancestors and the modern-day lows of having to engage in white supremacy. Keisha’s experience is similar to so many black women I know and I’m honored to tell a story that calls for change.
In 2020, Matthew A Cherry won the Oscar for Best Animated Short for his film Hair Love. The film “centers around the relationship between an African-American father, Stephen, his daughter, Zuri and her hair.” During his acceptance speech, Cherry (the director) wished to create an ode to black hair in the animated space. As art turns a mirror on life, the animated space is a reflection of the institutionalized racism many black women experience.
A study done by the 2021 Dove CROWN Research Study for Girls found the following:
53% of Black mothers, whose daughters have experienced hair discrimination, say their daughters have experienced race-based hair discrimination as early as 5 years old.
86% of Black teens who experience discrimination state they have experienced discrimination based on their hair by the age of 12. 100% of Black elementary school girls in majority-white schools who report experiencing hair bias and discrimination state they experienced the discrimination by the age of 10.
Through a coalition with several organizations and policy makers, the CROWN act which stands for “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair,” is a law that prohibits race-based hair discrimination, which is the denial of employment and educational opportunities because of hair texture or protective hairstyles including braids, locs, twists or bantu knots. At this time, it’s only been passed in 8 states.
Respectfully seeks to help demonstrate to generations of black women who have faced discrimination and the story of one vocal black girl, who with the help of ancestors, has the power to take back her self-respect.
These are some of the festivals we are hoping to be a part of this season. We may have already been accepted to one or three but we're not at liberty to say just yet!
We are seeking 13K to cover post-production and finishing costs. It will also help with travel, accommodation, marketing and event costs on the festival circuit. A small, dedicated team worked to make this film a reality and your support will help bring the product of their hard work across the finish line. Thank You!
Please pledge, share and follow. Every action counts. Thank you so much from the Respectfully team!
As we reach out to our network of friends be sure to reach out to yours. Not sure how? Check out some shareable posts below.
I just supported #respectfullythefilm a coming-of-age drama sprinkled with humor and magic. The film is a very real look into the types of discrimination black girls face in our school system. Pledge to support the post-production campaign on @seedandspark today
In “Respectfully,” a black AP Bio student leans on her ancestors for support when she is blocked from entering the classroom by her white teacher. #respectfullythefilm Follow, pledge and share today. tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Pledge to “Respectfully” because black stories and the dreams of the people who came before us deserve to be on screen! tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Respectfully highlights ethereal highs of being connected to one's ancestors and the modern-day lows of having to engage in white supremacy. Support the film today tinyurl.com/respectfullyshortfilm
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Color Correction
Costs $2,800
Gotta bring out the brilliant colors that are hiding in the RAW footage.
Post Sound Edit & Mix
Costs $500
Bad sound ruins films. We want great sound!
Composition
Costs $500
We need this original composition to enhance the emotional impact of the film.
Finishing
Costs $500
The final exports of the film formatted to our many projection needs
Submissions
Costs $1,200
Help with the costs of entering the festivals
Festival Expenses
Costs $7,500
Airfare, lodging, travel, food! Your donations will help offset some of these festival expenses
Cash Pledge
Costs $0
Direct link:
Share this update!
About This Team
Desirae (Des) Lee is a multi-media journalist, photographer and filmmaker from Jacksonville, FL who loves sunshine. She is a Blackhouse fellow, a Facebook SEEN Initiative grant winner, and has had art installations exhibited in Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. In 2021, she completed a film residency in Ghana done in partnership with the Library of Africa and the African Diaspora (LOATAD). Des’ goal is to always tell honest stories. She strives to create art which celebrates vulnerability, finds beauty amongst the mundane, and portrays the diversity of black people. She holds a BS from the University of Florida and a MFA in Film from Howard University.
C.A. is a Barbadian-born film producer and a graduate of Howard University’s Masters Film program. C.A. has always been fueled by curiosity, imagination and the need to accurately represent people of color and their communities onscreen. It is these pillars he leans on when choosing projects to support. When he isn’t working you can find him hiking along the East Coast, traveling or immersed in an architectural magazine. C.A. co-wrote ‘Respectfully’ with Kevin Johnson and has assembled a talented and diverse team of creatives to bring the story to life.
Michael Cooke is an award-winning cinematographer from Atlanta, Georgia. Michael's credits span across the commercial space to narrative to documentary. He got his start in 2007 as a Director of Photography lensing some of hip-hop's biggest names. Michael’s goal is to carefully craft images that will remain etched in viewers' minds for years to come.
Grace Nambo is a young actor whose passion for art pushes her towards her goals. "I am grateful that I got to be apart of this film that portrays such a relatable character and speaks on young black women's truth." While managing her first year of college and acting she is able to bring life to characters in her own way. "Playing a character like Keisha keeps a fire in me bright."
Shiro Kihagi is a New York based actress who comes from a strong theatre arts background. She is just as at home on screen however, turning in several electrifying performances already. When she isn't wowing audiences as a thespian she loves to put her culinary arts degree to use by cooking up delicious dishes at home.
It only makes sense that the same little girl that wanted to be a WWF wrestler would, somehow, still find a way to becoming a top tier entertainer. With credits in film, television and onstage, Erin has quietly been making a name for herself in the acting world. A name that isn't going to be quiet much longer with bigger projects coming and the same dedication and skill that she brings every single time.
Molly Samson is a treat to watch. Whether it's doing a ditty and a dance in a musical or stealing scenes on the stage and screen, we can't help but watch. Then she's disappearing into roles and we don't even know it's her because for Molly, it's always about the story and never about her and that's why she's great. But what do you expect from someone who used to drive a bus and play the saxophone? Unfortunately (and safely) never at the same time!
Matthew McGloin is an actor-musician based in Manhattan. His NY/Off-Broadway credits include The Hello Girls (OCR, Prospect Theater Company/59E59), Bastard Jones (The Cell), CasablancaBox (HERE Arts), Tectonic Theater Project, Abingdon Theatre Company. Select Regional: 2 Pianos, 4 Hands (Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park), The Play That Goes Wrong (Repertory Theatre St. Louis), Murder for Two (Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theatre), Beautiful Star (Triad Stage), The Lieutenant of Inishmore (Signature Theatre), Misalliance, Cinderella (Olney Theatre Center), As You Like It (Folger Theatre). TV/FILM: Primal Instinct (Investigation Discovery), The Food That Built America (The History Channel), Car Trouble (Columbia University), Wrong Place, Right Time (NYU). www.matthewmcgloin.com // @jackie_of_all_traits