Diverse Voices: Independent Filmmakers Respond to 9.11
On Sept. 11, the Center hosted a program featuring how independent filmmakers responded to the terrible attacks of 9.11. With introduction by Center Assistant Director Rouane Itani, the presentation showed films that ranged from meditations to investigations.

This showing of independent filmmakers’ work—including those of American University alumni—showed the importance of diverse perspectives in the media, the increasing flexibility of new media tools, and the creativity of artists and activists. It showcased independently curated work, work streamed on the web, web-based interactive information sites, and work funded by public television.

The screening also featured a demonstration of several Web sites concerned with 9.11.
An open discussion of the film work and how its perspectives contrast and compare with from mainstream television coverage of 9.11 was led by Rouane Itani after the event.

The Center’s public event was supported by the Haas Family Trust.

Films
"Site", by Jason Kliot. A meditation, focused on the faces of people who came to view the site at Ground Zero in New York. Part of a collection of independent films curated by independent film artists Jay Rosenblatt and Caveh Zahedi, called "Underground Zero." 8 minutes.

"Reflection", by Osama Al-Zain. A plea for tolerance, made using a memorial wall in Adams Morgan, D.C. One minute.

"Talking Threads," co-directed by AU alumna Erica Ginsberg and Leon Gerskovic. A set of interviews with local college students on their reactions to the events of 9.11, designed as an open document that others can contribute to. Part of d-word. 14 minutes.

"To the Workers of the World", by Tami Gold. Elegy to the workers in the restaurant at the top of the WTC 2002. Part of a collection of independent films by women curated by independent art filmmaker Pola Rapaport, called "September 11: Eyewitness." 4 minutes.

A clip from "The Making and Meaning of We Are Family" by Danny Schechter, about the remaking of the Spike Lee music video with a big group of artists from the around the world. 6 minutes.

"9.11 Moments", by ITVS producers. Ten one-minute spots on reactions to 9.11 across the country, including a Native American couple. Sponsored by the public TV organization committed to innovative work for underserved audiences in the U.S. 10 minutes.

"In My Own Skin", by Jennifer Jajeh and Nikki Byrd. A meditation on the complexities of the Arab American experience through candid interviews with five young Arab women living in New York in October 2001. 16 minutes.

"The Bicycle Path", by Jane Brill. A wry look at New York, months after the attacks, when some parts of life—including bike theft--seem to have returned to normal. 7 minutes.

View online short films at konscious.com, from the War and Peace D-Word Collaborative Project.