A two-day Black History Month Short Film Festival last week at Olive-Harvey College drew praise from one of the school's professors.

Jeffery Dillard, professor and department chair of Olive-Harvey College’s Business and Professional Services Department, said, "These films spark thought, action, and conversation."

A series of powerful films designed to evoke emotion and engage communities were showcased, highlighting the present and past experiences of social justice, the school said. 

Open to anyone living in the city, the festival highlighted social justice issues through works by some of the most talented emerging filmmakers. 

The inaugural short film festival, hosted by Chicago-based actor Frederick Paul Williams, was held at Olive-Harvey's Bruce Cherry Theater Feb. 9-10 

On the first day of the event, movie screenings ran 6-8 p.m., followed by a reception and a panel discussion. The following day saw more screenings between noon-2 p.m., giving viewers the chance to watch a variety of recently released short films from different genres and from countries around the world. 

One of the more prominent themes highlighted throughout the collection of movies was the criminalization of poverty and how those living in underprivileged neighborhoods can still find ways to progress within their communities. 

Another topic was the hazards faced by Black mothers with their health care and how often these issues are mishandled or ignored altogether. 

Russia's invasion of Ukraine also was examined as part of this report, showing how such an event can have far-reaching effects on countries around the world.