Screening of 'Negra' and 'Raíces': Afro-Diasporic Voices in Dialogue

On Monday, 9 November 2026, the Gastón Castelló Social Centre in Alicante hosts a powerful double screening of two essential documentary works: the Mexican feature 'Negra' (dir. Medhin Tewolde, 2020) and the Spanish short documentary 'Raíces' (dir. Fatoumata Sylla & Bright Martins, 2026). Presented as part of the Shakara Fáyé 2026 cycle—a platform dedicated to African and Afro-diasporic storytelling—the event bridges cinema, social reflection, and intercultural exchange.

'Negra' is an intimate, poetic documentary following five Afro-Mexican women from Mexico’s southeastern states. Through their personal testimonies, director Medhin Tewolde reveals systemic racism, shared strategies of resistance, journeys toward self-acceptance, and joyful affirmation of Black womanhood. The film has garnered international acclaim—including the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Chicago Latino Film Festival and the Silver Level Remi Award at WorldFest-Houston.

'Raíces', produced by JAN (Juventud Africana Negra), centres on young Black migrants in Spain, exploring cultural memory, identity formation, and the challenges of belonging. Shot with lyrical precision, it affirms the agency and creativity of Afro-Spanish youth—offering a vital counter-narrative to mainstream representations.

Following the screening, a moderated colloquium will feature Bright Martins (co-director of 'Raíces') and Melina Bolopá—an acclaimed Alicante-based audiovisual creator and director whose suspense short El Autoestopista was selected for the Alicante Cinema section of the Alicante Film Festival. The conversation will be held in Spanish, with optional oral interpretation available upon request.

Organised by Solidaridad Internacional País Valenciano within the Orígenes Globales project—funded by the Generalitat Valenciana—and co-produced by Tren al Sur Cultural Association with support from Alicante City Council’s Culture Department. Collaborating institutions include the Miguel Hernández University, the University of Alicante, the French Institute, MACA, and several grassroots cultural collectives across the Valencian Community.

Free admission. Registration via Eventbrite is recommended. Films screened in original Spanish with Spanish subtitles.