In the spring of 2003, three young filmmakers traveled
to Africa in search of a story. What started out as a filmmaking
adventure transformed into much more when these boys from Southern
California discovered a tragedy that disgusted and inspired them, a
tragedy where children are both the weapons and the victims.
After returning to the States, they created the documentary
“Invisible Children: Rough Cut,” a film that exposes the tragic
realities of northern Uganda’s night commuters and child soldiers.
The film was originally shown to friends and family, but has now been seen by millions of people. On Nov 4, at 7PM, it comes to Buffalo, where there will be a free screening at Lafayette Ave Presbyterian Church.
Most people, on seeing the film ask. “What can I do?” Since 2003, much has been done, but war still rages, and children still commute into the city every night, banding together for safety. After watching this film, you will be given opportunities to respond in appropriate and helpful ways.
Invisible Children, Inc. describes themselves by saying:
We are storytellers. We are visionaries, humanitarians, artists, and
entrepreneurs. We are individuals part of a generation eager for change
and willing to pursue it.As a non-profit we work to transform apathy into activism. By
documenting the lives of those living in regions of conflict and
injustice, we hope to educate and inspire individuals in the Western
world to use their unique voice for change. Our media creates an
opportunity for people to become part of a grassroots movement that
intelligently responds to what.s happening in the world.But our work extends beyond our borders. In war-affected regions we
focus on long-term development, working directly with individuals and
institutions that are eager to realize their full potential. Through
education and innovative economic opportunities, we partner with
affected communities and strive to improve the quality of life for
individuals living in conflict and post-conflict regions.Our approach to humanitarian work is founded in the strength and
intelligence of the Ugandan community. We learned early on it was not
only important but essential to heed the wisdom of people that had not
only lived in the war, but were surviving it. People who would know
better than anyone what the greatest needs were and the best ways to
meet them. What we came to find is that while there have been many
efforts to address the issues that stem from living and fighting in
such a long-lasting war, the people of Uganda are asking for a future
beyond the conflict.Their pleas have become our development strategy.
All of our programming is a partnership between those of us at
Invisible Children and those in the Ugandan community. We focus on
long-term goals that enable children to take responsibility for their
future and the future of their country. Our programs are carefully
researched and developed initiatives that address the need for quality
education, mentorships, the redevelopment of schools, resettlement from
the camps, and financial stability. (invisiblechildren.com)