Social Justice Documentary
A Film That Demands Justice
“Don't miss I Am Judah, a powerful documentary that exposes the harsh reality of racial injustice in Bristol. This film tells the story of Ras Judah Abundi, a beloved community elder who was brutally tasered by police in 2017. It’s more than a film—it’s a call for justice and change. Watch this important story and join the conversation.”
BWSMCONTRIBUTOR
I Am Judah Documentary Screening @ The Genesis Theatre
12th September 2024
Hosted by Gwenton Sloley
Few films carry the weight of a community’s struggle for justice, but I Am Judah does just that. Directed by Bashart Malik and produced by Christina Robino and Saleh Mamon,
I Am Judah shines a light on the 2017 tasering of Ras Judah Abundi, a beloved elder of Bristol’s St. Pauls Afro-Caribbean community. But this isn’t just a story about police brutality—it’s about systemic racism, resilience, and a community’s fight for justice.
A Story That Will Stay With You
This is not just a documentary—it’s an experience. Judah’s story speaks not only to the specific incident of his tasering but also weaves through decades of historical racism, from the transatlantic slave trade to modern-day injustices.
As Judah poignantly declares in the film, “This was all about race.” And it’s a message that hits hard—viewers are confronted with the painful realities of racism within the very fabric of society, forcing the audience to grapple with uncomfortable truths.
A Hero Beyond the Headlines
While the incident itself made headlines, I Am Judah brings the man behind the news into focus. The film delves deep into Judah’s life, from his early years in Jamaica to his role as a pillar in the St. Pauls community. Through intimate interviews, we see Judah not only as a victim but as a leader, an advocate, and a resilient figure fighting for justice even after enduring immense personal trauma.
Photo credit: Paul McKenzie
Judah’s story is amplified by the voices of community figures like poet and activist Lawrence Hoo (Centre of photo above) and former Lord Mayor Cleo Lake, whose commentary and performances throughout the film bring the gravity of Judah’s plight to the forefront.
More Than a Single Incident: The Broader Struggle for Justice
I Am Judah doesn’t isolate Judah’s story—it connects it to a broader history of injustice faced by the Afro-Caribbean community in Bristol. From Judah’s wrongful imprisonment and assault in 1975 to the notorious 1980 St. Pauls uprising, the film offers a powerful commentary on how systemic racism has repeatedly targeted Black communities.
It is a testament to the ongoing fight for justice, not just in Judah’s case but for every person of color who has been mistreated by law enforcement.
One of the most harrowing moments in the film is the footage of Judah’s tasering. The crackle of electricity, Judah’s cries, and the helplessness of a community witnessing such brutality linger long after the scene ends.
As Judah reflects, “If Tom wasn’t there, I wouldn’t be here today.”
His account of survival after being tasered—suffering a stroke, a speech impediment, and lasting emotional scars—demands the audience to reflect on how the legal system continues to fail communities of color.
A Film With a Mission
Photo credit: Paul McKenzie
As director Bashart Malik (Photo above right) declares, “This is a film about justice.”
Those words are at the heart of why I Am Judah must be seen. It’s a film that forces us to confront the uncomfortable realities of racism and policing in modern Britain.
It also challenges us to question—how far have we come? What more needs to be done?
Photo credit: Paul McKenzie
(Left to Right) Shaun Pascal, Gwentson Sloley, Ras Judah, Lawrence Hoo and Bashart Malik
I Am Judah is more than just a film—it’s a powerful indictment of injustice and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Don’t miss your chance to see it for yourself.
This is a story that needs to be heard, remembered, and acted upon.
SECURE YOUR TICKETS NOW for the 2nd Spirit of the Caribbean Annual Ball & Black Honour Awards on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 7.30 pm to 02.00 am.
The night features a reception, networking, and awards ceremony honouring those who have made significant impact within and beyond our community. Post-awards, prepare for live entertainment and dancing until 02:00 am. The event, a symbol of shared heritage, showcasing Caribbean Excellent.
Dress code is black tie.
Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite (booking fees apply)
or from Event Connoisseurs: with no booking fee.
For more details, contact us at
enquiries@eventconnoisseurs.com
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