Join us for a special screening of Ryan Coogler’s powerful debut feature, Fruitvale Station, followed by a post-film conversation with local community leaders.

Based on the true story of Oscar Grant, the film follows the final day of a young Black man’s life before he was killed by police at a Bay Area transit station in 2009. Told with intimacy and restraint, the film honors the fullness of a life while confronting the reality of state violence and its lasting impact on families and communities.

This screening will be followed by a moderated conversation about the film and why it still matters today. Panelists will reflect on how the themes of Fruitvale Station connect to our current political and social climate.

Fruitvale Station is the first film in our year-long series called Declarations of Independence that highlights the origins of underrepresented filmmakers whose films made an indelible mark on American culture. These distinct voices showcase what it truly means to reflect upon life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

About the Panel

	Abena Sankofa Imhotep Abena Sankofa Imhotep is an author, scholar, and advocate whose work celebrates Africana, challenges historical narratives, and champions education. As the founder of Sankofa Literary & Empowerment Group, The Imhotep Report, and host of Black & Privileged in America Podcast, she creates lifelong learning spaces and strives for authentic community connection. She is a TEDx speaker, a member of the Iowa Speakers Bureau, and a member of the Iowa Writers’ Collaborative. Abena graduated from Drake University and has received numerous honors including the Iowa Podcast Host of the Year and the Iowa Author Award.
	Brian Brown Brian Brown is a higher education and athletics leader with deep experience in inclusive excellence, administration, and community engagement. He holds degrees from Northwestern State University (BS), the University of Missouri (MPA, doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis), and is a former elite athlete—winning a U.S. Outdoor Championship and an NCAA Indoor national title in the high jump. Brown has served as Deputy Athletics Director and Director of Inclusive Excellence at the University of Missouri, Director of the Drake Relays, and is currently the lead pastor at Hope+Elim Church.
	Matthew “Maté” Bruce Matthew “Maté” Bruce is a Des Moines native, activist, and writer with a lifelong passion for sports, music, literature, and nature. He arrived at the University of Iowa in 2014 amid a national reckoning over racial injustice and chose to respond with his voice. In 2020, he co-founded DSM BLM, a nonprofit focused on anti-police activism, prison abolition, and social justice, organizing demonstrations and advocating for justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others. His work and efforts have been featured in NPR, NBC, Black Iowa News, and he has contributed to the Des Moines Register and Iowa City Gazette.
	Anthony Pawnell Anthony Pawnell is a civil rights and compliance professional serving as the Title IX Coordinator and Judicial Officer for Des Moines Area Community College. He previously worked as a Civil Rights Specialist with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. Originally from St. Louis, Anthony moved to Des Moines in 2013 to pursue his education at Drake University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Law, Politics, and Society from Drake University and earned his Juris Doctor from Drake Law School in 2021. He also continues to engage the community through poetry and music under his artist alias, Andre Davis.
	Billy Weathers Billy Weathers is a multidisciplinary artist, entrepreneur, and activist, and the founder of the B.WELL Foundation. Through his art, he explores identity, resilience, and social justice, while his businesses center culture, innovation, and impact. Billy’s activism spans youth mentorship, education, and placemaking, reflecting his belief that art, business, and activism are inseparable tools for change. At his core, he is committed to creating spaces where creativity, healing, and community thrive. In 2024, Billy opened the doors of The Contrary, a James Beard-nominated cocktail lounge in Des Moines East Village.