The Director's Journey
For several years, I have been developing a documentary film project titled God of the Oppressed-Stories of Black Liberation. The film delves into the themes of Black Liberation Theology and Black Womanist Theology. I started this project with the esteemed African American theologian, author, and activist Dr. James H. Cone. The project went on hiatus after Dr. James Cone’s passing in 2018 and during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, I resumed work on it in 2022.
God of the Oppressed-Stories of Black Liberation is a powerful affirmation of Black self-definition and self-determination within the Christian experience. At the same time, it transcends being merely a film; it is an interdisciplinary exploration of the role of religion and spirituality in our pursuit of liberation. It honors our Christian heritage and serves as a spiritual bridge to the future for the next generation. The stories, characters, and our unique expressions in the arts and literature will infuse the narrative. The story will delve into Black Liberation and Black Womanist theology, providing a profound perspective of God that embodies the strength and resilience of too often marginalized Black individuals and communities.
Liberation Theology challenges existing power structures. Consequently, mainstream foundations and PBS are reluctant to fund projects that do so. Therefore, we must invest in our own narratives and continue pursuing support from progressive entities.
Rev. Graylan Hagler, Senior Advisor at The Fellowship of Reconciliation USA and Director & Chief Visionary of Faith Strategies, LLC; Rev. William Lamar, pastor of Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, D.C. are rallying support for the project.
The film will share the stories of historical and contemporary religious leaders, icons, and everyday Black Christians willing to fight for liberation. The project seeks contributions from all these entities, particularly Black women, to support our exploration of Black Womanist Theology. To make a tax-deductible donation, please visit:
The Filmmakers
Dante James is a visionary, multiple Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and educator whose work explores the rich intersections of race, history, and culture with depth, artistry, and conviction. With a career spanning acclaimed documentaries and dramatic films, James has established himself as a powerful voice in independent filmmaking.
James won one of his three Emmys as the series producer of the PBS documentary series Slavery and the Making of America, narrated by Morgan Freeman. James is known for creating visually stunning, thought-provoking work that challenges and enlightens. His documentary Harlem in Montmartre: A Paris Jazz Story was awarded Best Documentary at the Pan African International Film Festival in Cannes, France, and his dramatic short film The Doll earned Best Dramatic Short at the Hollywood Black Film
Festival.
James served as the executive producer for the PBS series This Far by Faith at Blackside Films in Boston. He also worked on two DuPont Columbia Silver Baton award-winning series at Blackside. Committed to education, he has taught and inspired students at various institutions, including Duke University, the University of Dayton, and the University of Cape Town, where he was a guest lecturer in 2010.
A member of both the Writers Guild and Directors Guild of America, Dante James continues to craft powerful stories that center on Black voices, history, and liberation, bringing underrepresented narratives to the forefront with integrity and artistic excellence.
Kara Mathis is a dedicated researcher, associate producer, and proud member of the Blackside filmmaking family. With a keen focus on amplifying underrepresented voices, Kara will lead our exploration of Black Womanist Theology, highlighting the groundbreaking scholarship of Rev. Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas, Dr. Renita Weems, Dr. Emily Townes, and other influential Black women scholars and activists whose work continues to shape the fields of theology, justice, and social change.
Kara began her filmmaking career as a valued member of the production team for This Far By Faith, serving as a researcher and series production assistant on the acclaimed PBS series. Her early experiences there deepened her commitment to storytelling that captures the intersection of faith, culture, and liberation movements.
A graduate of the American University of Paris, Kara brings an global perspective to her work, blending research with creative storytelling to help uncover and elevate the rich spiritual narratives within the Black experience. Her passion for truth, justice, and community continues to inspire her contributions to documentary filmmaking and beyond.
