In Berlin on 29 October, starting at 20:00 at the Babylon Cinema, my documentary film will screen at this film festival. Myself and members of the film team, and hopefully some participants also will be there to present and see it on the big screen again. Please visit their website, as well as the theater site for more details and information on the venue and other films being shown. http://www.refugeesfilmfest.com or in the Website of Babylon Cinema: https://babylonberlin.eu.

The topic of refugees, “migrants” and the backlash of hatred, intolerance and xenophobia that continues to be a big problem in Germany, might topically seem unrelated to Native Americans or German enthusiasm and appropriation of “native cultures”. However, it is very much connected to the issues of racism and modern colonialism that plague western society. Here is an entry letter to the festival, as we realized (and have experienced) that many Europeans, Germans especially, automatically reject any criticism or connection of stereotypes to continuing historical harm.

Greetings,

I am Red Haircrow, the director and producer of this attached film submission. At first glance, it may not seem to fit the description of your festival, but very much due to its material and participants, I feel it may be given consideration due to its honest discussion of stereotyping of people of color, foreigners and those who are “Othered” in German society.

Our film’s interviewees contrast Germany’s treatment of its “favorite” foreigners, Native American Indians vs. the daily racism, discrimination and aggression less flavored “others”, such as refugees and migrants often receive. It also specifically discusses how white foreigners are “expats”, but people of color are “migrants”. A different standard is applied. So, the topics of Eurocentrism, colonialist history and beliefs, nationalism and racism when one does not fit the favored stereotype is considered. Also the role of spectator or voyeur some Europeans have to migration stories and the personal and/or national tragedies that people searching for better and safer lives may bring with them.

Sincerely,
Mr. Red Haircrow