Schedule:

Tue, January 21

12:00 PM
Gallery Exhibition: Joyful Color
Pozez JCC

Thursday, January 30, 2025

7:00 p.m: Opening Night: Left Alone Rhapsody at Pozez JCC

Breaking Barriers: The Intersection of Disability and Creativity

Experience an inspiring evening as we explore the powerful intersection of disability and creativity. The evening will feature a screening of Left Alone Rhapsody, a documentary about pianist and composer John Bayless, who, after a life-altering stroke, reinvents himself as a one-handed musician and storyteller.

Following the film, engage in a thought-provoking discussion on how individuals with disabilities are reshaping the arts and pushing creative boundaries. This event celebrates the resilience and innovation of artists who prove that disability is not a limitation but a powerful tool for unique expression.  

We invite you to stay for a special reception to continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting. Enjoy delicious food and drinks while you experience the new gallery exhibition, Joyful Color by Sophia Pineda, and immerse yourself in the artist’s vibrant portrayal of disability, inclusion, and empowerment.

Saturday, February 01, 2025

1:00 p.m: Lights, Camera, Inclusion: A Journey Through Disability and Film at Docs in Progress
Join us for an evening of two powerful film screenings that explore disability, inclusion, and film. To My Father follows Troy Kotsur, the first Deaf man to win a Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for CODA, as it delves into the profound influence of his father, who he called his “hero” in his emotional acceptance speech.

Working Differently takes us behind the scenes of the film and television industry, showcasing the importance of accessibility and inclusion, and why these values must become the industry standard. After the screenings, join us for a panel discussion on accessibility, inclusion, and the evolving entertainment landscape, featuring insights from industry experts and advocates.

Sunday, February 02, 2025

1:00 p.m: Bonds of the Game: A Film Screening and Equipment Showcase at Pozez JCC
In this heartwarming family drama, young Jordy is recovering from a serious baseball injury when he heads to summer camp and meets Lucas, a boy adjusting to life after Cochlear Implant surgery. Together, they form a powerful pitcher/catcher duo, leading their team to a championship game. This inspiring story celebrates resilience, friendship, and the power of teamwork. Following the screening, join us for an exciting film equipment demonstration, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the tools and techniques used to bring this story to life.

Tuesday, February 04, 2025

6:00 p.m: Beyond the Game: Disability, Teamwork, and Representation at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital
Join us for a family-friendly film screening featuring two heartwarming stories that explore the intersection of disability and sports. In Rally Caps, young Jordy, recovering from a serious Little League injury, heads to summer camp and forms a special bond with Lucas, a boy adjusting to life after Cochlear Implant surgery. Together, they lead their team to a championship game, showcasing the power of friendship, teamwork, and resilience.  Baseball-loving 10-year-old Bracken and his younger deaf brother investigate the contrast between early 1900s inclusion of deaf players in baseball and the present, seeking to understand why representation has regressed. Following the screenings, join us for a panel discussion on the intersection of disability and being an athlete, exploring challenges, representation, and the power of sports.

Wednesday, February 05, 2025

6:30 p.m: Reel Education: Grant Writing for Filmmakers at DC Public Library
Join us for a workshop tailored for filmmakers looking to secure funding for their projects. We’ll break down the grant application process, offering practical tips on writing effective proposals, understanding what funders are looking for, and navigating the world of film-specific grants. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this event will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to pursue grant opportunities and bring your cinematic vision to life. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to fund your next film project!

Thursday, February 06, 2025

6:30 p.m: Workplace Breakthroughs: Overcoming Barriers to Inclusion at Makom
Join us for a screening of 25 Prospect Street, a heartwarming and inspiring behind-the-scenes look at the Prospector Theater, a non-profit cinema with a mission to provide competitive and inclusive employment for people with disabilities. The film follows Val, an eccentric, pink-haired visionary, as she works to make her dream theater a reality, all while navigating the complexities of her relationship with her sister Hope. As the theater grows from a small-town operation to a beacon of hope, watch as the team laughs, cries, and earns their first paychecks—proving that dreams are achievable for everyone. After the screening, join us for a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities of being disabled in the workplace, featuring insights from advocates and industry experts.

Sat, February 08, 2025

10:00 a.m: Adventures Beyond the Classroom at ServiceSource
At a prestigious boarding school for the deaf, shy and reserved Jamie forms an unlikely friendship with the bold and adventurous Imane. Together, they embark on a spontaneous road trip to Paris, hoping for an exciting escape from their routine. However, when things don’t go as planned, their journey takes unexpected twists and turns. As they face challenges and navigate new experiences, Jamie is pushed out of her comfort zone and begins to discover the strength within herself. Through this adventurous and heartwarming journey, both girls learn valuable lessons about friendship, self-discovery, and stepping outside their limits.

Sun, February 09, 2025

10:00 a.m: More Than the Game: Disability, Inclusion, and Teamwork at Congregation Olam Tikvah
Join us for a family-friendly film screening featuring two heartwarming stories that explore the intersection of disability and sports. In Rally Caps, young Jordy, recovering from a serious Little League injury, heads to summer camp and forms a special bond with Lucas, a boy adjusting to life after Cochlear Implant surgery. Together, they lead their team to a championship game, showcasing the power of friendship, teamwork, and resilience.

3:00 p.m: Resilience and the Human Spirit: Pushing Beyond Physical Limits at Temple Rodef Shalom
Join us for a screening of Facing The Falls, the powerful documentary about Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan, a disability advocate who embarks on a 12-day expedition through the Grand Canyon while battling a life-threatening muscle-wasting disease. Despite being unable to walk unassisted, Cara pushes her physical limits, demonstrating the incredible power of resilience and determination. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A about the topics the film addresses, including risk taking and adaptive athletics. Light refreshments will be served following the panel discussion.

Tue, February 11, 2025

6:30 p.m: Effective Job Search and Interview Tips for Job Seekers with Disabilities at Makom
Join us for a comprehensive workshop designed to provide job seekers with disabilities the tools, confidence, and strategies to succeed in the competitive job market. Whether you’re creating your first resume, navigating job boards, or preparing for your next interview, this workshop will offer practical support and personalized advice to help you achieve your career goals. You’ll leave the event with not only new skills but also the confidence to advocate for your abilities and needs in the workplace.

Schedule
6:30 p.m: Resume Writing
7:00 p.m: Job Search
7:30 p.m: Break
8:00 p.m: Mock Job Interviews

Wed, February 12, 2025

7:30 p.m: Unstoppable: Embracing the Power of Music at Reston Community Center
Join us for a screening of Amazing Grace, the inspiring story of a talented young musician whose dreams were interrupted by a rare illness, Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM). Once on her way to the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Grace’s life changed drastically on her 17th birthday. Despite the challenges, she embraces her new reality with determination, finding innovative ways to continue creating art. Driven by her philosophy, “My only limitation will be my imagination,” Grace refuses to let her disability define her. Featuring insights from Justin Hurwitz, the Academy Award-winning composer of La La Land, this film celebrates perseverance and creativity. Before the screening, we will hear from the staff at the Reston Community Center about the many arts and cultural opportunities available.

Sun, February 16, 2025

6:00 p.m: The Fight for Rights: Resilience and Advocacy at Edlavitch DCJCC
La Lucha follows the inspiring journey of Feliza, Mareele, Rose Mery, and Miguel, who led a powerful movement advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. Over the course of 35 days and 250 miles, they rally hundreds of supporters as they trek across the harsh Andes to reach the Bolivian capital. Enduring hunger, extreme conditions, and facing obstacles such as barricades, riot police, and hostility, these brave activists press on with unwavering determination. Their relentless fight ultimately leads them to La Paz, where they rewrite national history. Following the screening, a panel discussion will dive into the topic of disability advocacy, exploring how individuals can make a meaningful difference in the fight for rights and equality.

Tue, February 18, 2025

2:00 p.m: Advocating for Change Through Resilience at Northern Virginia Community College – Alexandria Campus
La Lucha follows the inspiring journey of Feliza, Mareele, Rose Mery, and Miguel, who led a powerful movement advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. Over the course of 35 days and 250 miles, they rally hundreds of supporters as they trek across the harsh Andes to reach the Bolivian capital. Enduring hunger, extreme conditions, and facing obstacles such as barricades, riot police, and hostility, these brave activists press on with unwavering determination. Their relentless fight ultimately leads them to La Paz, where they rewrite national history. Following the screening, a panel discussion will dive into the topic of disability advocacy, exploring how individuals can make a meaningful difference in the fight for rights and equality.

Thu, February 20, 2025

7:00 p.m: Reel Education: Behind the Screen: Insights from Film Programmers at Online
The Film Programmers Panel brings together a diverse group of film curators, festival organizers, and industry professionals to discuss the art and challenges of curating films for audiences. This panel provides a unique opportunity for film enthusiasts, emerging filmmakers, and industry professionals to gain insight into the selection process, the importance of thematic programming, and the evolving landscape of film festivals and screenings.

Sun, February 23, 2025

4:00 p.m: Unstoppable: Breaking Barriers Through Resilience and Inclusion at Beth El Hebrew Congregation
Join us for an inspiring film screening that highlights empowerment, visibility, and breaking through societal barriers. Through two compelling stories, we witness the power of resilience and determination in overcoming personal and societal limitations. Working Differently takes us behind the scenes of the film and television industry, exploring the critical need for accessibility and inclusion, and why these values must become the industry standard. Facing The Falls follows international disability advocate Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan on a daring 12-day expedition through the Grand Canyon, where she faces an aggressive, fatal muscle-wasting disease, demonstrating courage, ambition, and the will to defy the odds. Together, these films inspire us to push boundaries, elevate voices, and create a more inclusive world for all.

Mon, February 24, 2025

5:00 p.m: Networking w/ DC Filmmakers at Silver Branch Brewing Co
Join us and filmmakers from the DMV region for a creative Happy Hour on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. This casual event, produced with TIVA, is for creative individuals and those who appreciate creativity. Enjoy Happy Hour specials from 5:00 pm-6:00 pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free, and the event is open to those 21+. Network, relax, and enjoy craft beers, snacks, and good company. Sponsored by Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC, Creative Colony Spaces, Wheaton Film Festival, and more. Use the QR codes at the table for food and drinks.

Sun, March 02, 2025

3:00 p.m: Navigating the Challenges of Marriage for Disabled Couples
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts – The Reach
Patrice and Garry, a disabled couple in their 50s, face a difficult dilemma: their desire to marry is complicated by the potential loss of essential benefits. In the face of this challenging decision, they opt for a commitment ceremony to celebrate their love while navigating the risks involved. This discussion will explore the intersection of love, disability, and financial stability, examining the societal and systemic barriers that disabled couples face when it comes to marriage. How do policies around benefits impact the personal lives and rights of disabled individuals. What changes need to be made to support the choices of disabled couples who wish to marry without the fear of losing necessary support.

Tue, March 04, 2025

7:00 p.m: Breaking Barriers, Building Family at The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center
Join us for two deeply personal and transformative films that explore love, intimacy, and family in the face of societal prejudice. In As You Are, an interabled queer couple spends the night together for the first time, confronting their complex relationships with desire, sexuality, and bodily autonomy, while discovering what it truly means to love another person. Meanwhile, in Loud Love (Alan and Brian’s story), a deaf gay couple pursues parenthood through international surrogacy, raising two hearing children while challenging ongoing discrimination. Both stories delve into the complexities of love, relationships, and identity, shedding light on the resilience required to overcome prejudice and build meaningful, loving connections. After the screening, join us for a conversation on what it means to be both LGBTQ and disabled.

Thu, March 06, 2025

7:00 p.m: Closing Night: La Lucha at Pozez JCC
La Lucha follows the inspiring 35-day, 250-mile journey of activists Feliza, Mareele, Rose Mery, and Miguel, who marched across the Andes to La Paz advocating for disability rights. Despite harsh conditions and hostility, their determination, supported by allies, led to laws recognizing disability rights in Bolivia, showcasing the power of collective action. After the film, join a panel on Disability Rights Advocacy - Empowering Change, where experts will discuss breaking barriers to inclusion and promoting policies for equal access to education, healthcare, and employment.  Concluding our evening will be our final reception, where we’ll raise our glasses to celebrate the conclusion of this incredible festival. We look forward to toasting to the memories and moments we’ve shared.

Date: January 30 - March 6, 2025

Location: Various Towns in VA

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