Our world, as beautiful as it can be, still needs healing. While we all contribute, it often feels like it’s never enough. One vital step toward progress is truth—understanding where we come from and what must change.
This belief has always driven the March on Washington Film Festival, born from the creativity and passion of many minds. Now, we’re evolving and rebranding as March On to reflect our expanded mission: telling the untold stories of the Civil Rights Movement, honoring those who paved the way, and connecting history to the future.
Inspired by a trip with Congressman John Lewis, our founder, Robert Raben, realized that change is driven by the many, not just the few. This led us to focus on highlighting the stories of everyday citizens, offering a platform for honest conversations through art and narrative.
What sets March On apart is how we transcend literal marching by using all forms of visual and performing arts to tell these stories—through singing, dancing, drawing, acting, writing, and yes, transformational filmmaking. This storytelling legacy, passed down through generations of African-ancestored people, continues to be a catalyst for movements and progress. These are the Stories That Move, and we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire action.
As we move forward as March On, our mission remains the same: to honor those who paved the way and to make real for audiences around the world how the stories of our past serve to drive our collective future.
I look forward to seeing you at our Fall Festival, October 6-13. This year’s theme, WORD! Writers Who Move the Movement, will celebrate the power of writers through panels, films, and immersive art experiences. Stay tuned for ticket releases later this week.
Thank you for your participation, your story, and your support.
Together, let’s continue to March On.
