Black Pittsburgh is a full-length documentary that explores the history, culture, and politics of the Black community in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Through a series of interviews with prominent members of the Black community, Black Pittsburgh will explore the ways in which the community has evolved since its formation.
The expository documentary is being produced by Dr. Rueben Brock, professor of psychology at California University of Pennsylvania. A native of Washington County, Brock is a nationally recognized scholar, specializing in issues related to Black Psychology. The film is directed by photographer turned filmmaker, Danny Miller. Brock and Miller have collaborated, for the past year, on a web show entitled “House Call with Dr. Rueben Brock.” The show uses a talk show format to explore issues of mental health and other lifestyle related issues. The duo will collaborate with various local scholars and prominent figures on the creation of this film. Notable names include Dr. Audrey Murrell at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. John Welch at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, Post Gazette writer Tony Norman, State Representative Summer Lee, Lt. Governor John Fetterman, and Mayor Dwan Walker (Aliquippa). The film will highlight Pittsburgh’s many cultural icons, like George Benson, Roger Humphries, Thad Mosley, August Wilson, and Teenie Harris.
Black Pittsburgh will serve to contribute to a greater understanding of the unique culture of Pittsburgh’s Black community. It will also serve to expose the political forces that have historically contributed to the struggles of this particular community. The film will add to an already growing conversation about the condition of Black communities in Pittsburgh. This film is being made in response to reports published by the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, which highlight issues of race and gender disparity in the region. Through powerful images and stories, Black Pittsburgh stands to propel the political conversation about race in Pittsburgh toward much needed action.
The full budget for this film is $200,000. We hope to raise the first $50,000 in production costs through grants and private donations. This Kickstarter campaign will allow us to show some fundraising ability.
The major challenges to this project will be raising funds and securing participation from high profile guests. The academic and political connections of the film’s producer, Dr. Rueben Brock, have helped to open doors with respect to high profile guests. As the list of on camera appearances grows, we believe the fundraising will become easier. To date, we have had a surprising amount of success in securing high profile interviews. The only significant risk involved with this project would be the loss of capital. We believe, however, that the cultural and political significance of this film will justify the investment. A greater understanding of Pittsburgh’s Black community is a worthy investment, regardless of the return. We also believe that the potential for return on this investment is endless.