Grab A Bestie And Head To The Theater For National Black Movie Day

National Black Movie Day is upon us and here are some ways you can join in the celebration.

The National Black Movie Association (NBMA) will observe National Black Movie Day on Feb. 17 to celebrate Black cinema and its contributions to the film world.

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating National Black Movie Day for a fifth year,” said Agnes Moss, founder of the NBMA and creator of National Black Movie Day. “It’s truly gratifying to know that people across the country will join us in celebrating the rich legacy of Black cinematic excellence.”

A former film student, Moss is an avid supporter of Black movies, having had her own aspirations of becoming a filmmaker cut short due to the lack of funding for a film program at her university. Now, she hopes to herald in a new generation of Black student film creatives through the establishment of the NBMA. The nonprofit organization centers on five services and resources to facilitate impact – education and empowerment, news and information, research and data, marketing and advertising, and advocacy and involvement. “I want every student filmmaker to have the resources to make filmmaking a viable career,” said Moss.

In line with this mission, she and other members of the NBMA will also ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange on the night before National Black Movie Day in a symbolic display. “It embodies the mission of this organization –- to educate, elevate, and fund the work of the next generation of Black filmmakers and media creatives,” Moss shared.

In recognition of National Black Movie Day, cinephiles and film buffs everywhere are encouraged to show their support by viewing a Black film in theaters or at home or sharing a video online about their favorite Black movie, director, etc. Participants can also use the hashtag #nationalblackmovieday to show their enthusiasm while tagging @nationalblackmovieday on their posts.