DISTRICT 28

category: diaspora, documentaries, guyana, short films

DISTRICT 28

Richard David is a local activist of Indo-Guyanese origin seeking the city council seat in District 28, Queens, New York City. Coming from a country divided along racial lines, David aims to bridge the two racial sides of the Van Wyck Expressway. His story is supported by other leaders, positively representing the Indo-Caribbean community in Queens, New York City.

directed by TAYLOR JENKINS
"DISTRICT 28," began after I started interviewing Caribbean people living within the Diaspora. Time and time again, I would come away from these interviews inspired by the people I had just spoken with. One day, I met Ravi Ramkeesoon and he immediately pointed us in the direction of many influential players in New York City (NYC).

Digging further, I realized that all of these people were in, or from Queens, NYC and of Indo-Guyanese origin. Soon, I learned about a local activist of Indo-Guyanese origin who announced his campaign for city council of the 28th district in Queens. If elected, he would be the first city councilman of Indo-Guyanese origin to lead this heavily Indo-Guyanese district.

Up until filming, I had never thought twice about local politics. But, District 28 is different. The whole community got behind Richard David's campaign. It was hard to stay away, even though I am based in Baltimore, Maryland. This community was magnetic and I hope it is to everyone who watches the film.

The purpose of this film is to show how strong this community is, and strengthen black and brown solidarity (especially in Caribbean communities).

USA/GUYANA || 2018 || 25 MINS