The Wrap-Up! King & Obama at CAA Amplify, ABFF Outshines a Downpour and Urban Negro League Gala

Former First Lady of the United States and co-founder of Higher Ground media, Michelle Obama , sat down for a conversation with Regina King to discuss how movies, short films and stories can educate people at the CAA Amplify Summit 2024 in Ojai, California. "This is where America is, and you’ve got to meet people where they are," Obama stated. "If Hollywood is where they are, as Barack and I think, well then how can we be a part of changing this, helping to be a part of this landscape and broadening the types of stories that get told.”

The American Black Film Festival 's creative director, Issa Rae , joined founder and president Jeff and Nicole Friday to kick off the festival's opening night. The 27th HBO® Short Film Award Showcase took center stage, where five filmmakers screened their short films. All five films this year were from Black women directors: C hocolate with Sprinkles , Muna , Once Upon a Dime , The Brown Dog and The Rebel Girls .

The New York Urban League celebrated its 58th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala hosted by GMA3 ’s DeMarco Morgan at Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. This prestigious event recognizes exceptional individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the pursuit of equality and justice. It's named after the renowned abolitionist and social reformer.