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The Power of Story, Soul, and Solidarity: Reflecting on Our Juneteenth Celebration by Fungai Kahari

by Melinda Raebyne July 11, 2025 0

On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Meaningful Movies High School Group hosted a truly unforgettable Juneteenth celebration, one that honored history, uplifted culture, and reminded us of all of the transformative power of storytelling.

The virtual screening of the award-winning documentary Summer of Soul brought audiences from across generations and geographies together to witness a long-buried but deeply vibrant chapter of American history: the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. Directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, Summer of Soul is more than a concert film, it is a reclamation of space, memory, and voice. Through rich archival footage and groundbreaking performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, and others, the film captured the spirit of Black resilience, artistry, and pride.

Our Juneteenth gathering was not only about looking back, but it was also a moment of collective reflection and forward movement. In the words of one attendee, “This wasn’t just a film screening, it was an education, a celebration, and a call to keep going.”

The event was made even more special by two powerful musical performances. Kim Archer, Washington’s very own soulful powerhouse, opened the event with “This Water,” a stunning tribute to nature, emotion, and spirit. Minista Ras Bernard Benzima, joining us all the way from Uganda, offered a deeply moving performance of “Eyo”,a blend of Roots Call and Mi Emu Akua (“Come Home”), reminding us to reconnect with our ancestral truths and redefine the meaning of home.

Following the screening, both artists joined us for a dynamic panel discussion, offering insights on the intersection of music, identity, and liberation. Their presence and their stories, deepened the experience, reinforcing the global and generational significance of Juneteenth.

This event was a powerful example of what the Meaningful Movies Project strives to do: create space for courageous conversations, meaningful media, and shared humanity. We are especially proud of the High School Intern team whose passion and planning brought this vision to life.

We extend our deepest thanks to our partners, The Black Collective, and co-sponsors Meaningful Movies Spokane, Mt. Baker, and Rainier Beach, for their continued support for these community-driven events as well to our entire network of Meaningful Movies groups for helping to spread the word. We also give our heartfelt thanks  to the Abe Keller Peace Education Fund for their funding and support which helped make this  screening possible.

And to everyone who attended, donated, or helped spread the word: thank you. Your presence helped us uplift the voices that history tried to silence,and reminded us that the fight for justice is far from over.

As we reflect on this Juneteenth, may we carry the rhythm of Summer of Soul with us. Let it guide our work, inspire our communities, and fuel our commitment to building a more just and joyful world.

Until next time—keep the soul alive and keep the stories going.

For more information on Kim Archer: 

Www.kimarchermusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/kimarchermusic
https://www.instagram.com/kimarchermusic/
https://youtube.com/@kimarchermusic?si=uRfD9-aQ-hKrvG5e
https://www.tiktok.com/@kimarchermusic?lang=en

Click Here for Kim’s Performance Video from the Juneteenth Screening.

For more information on Ras Bernard Benzima: 

Website www.authenticvoicesafrica.com
Artists In Residence 2022-https://youtu.be/QHzNELp2DAY
AVA Hip Hop Festival 2022-https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoMxjKqvBVu/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Click Here for Ras’s Performance Video from the Juneteenth Screening.

Article written by Fungai Kahari– The Meaningful Movies Administrative Assistant.

Fungai Kahari s dedicated youth empowerment advocate based in Johannesburg, South Africa, passionate about social causes like mental health, climate action, and education equity. He works to inspire and mobilize young people to create positive changes in their communities. Fungai believe that empowering youth is key to building a more resilient and inclusive world.