It’s Time to PitchBLACK!!!

When we started PitchBLACK back in 2015, there was nothing else quite like it in the documentary film world that was hyper focused on Black stories. Sure, fIlmmakers had been producing nonfiction Black stories for decades and there were other pitch competitions. We actually modeled PitchBLACK after GoodPitch — which supports social justice media makers. But we knew that people telling Black stories, whether they were focused on social justice or not, needed the circle of support that BPM now works so hard to provide. 

As I look back, I feel nothing but pride over the success of this program. Not only have 12 of the projects pitched over the years been completed and distributed on public media or exhibited at a festival or museum, but many of the makers who participated in the early days are now prolific, well-respected leaders in this field. 

A Worthwhile Investment

Black Public Media could not have developed its PitchBLACK program without the support of the many partners and friends who’ve embraced our vision and provide us with the resources to bring this iconic program to fruition each year. At a time when some corporations and foundations are shying away from projects and people that center Black stories, Netlix has stood strong in its ongoing support for PitchBLACK. 

PBS has been a BPM partner since this organization was started in 1979. But their stalwart support for PitchBLACK and our BPM Trailblazer Award is especially important because it signals to the wider media industry that Black stories and the people who tell them hold a rightful place within the constellation of content PBS delivers to the taxpaying public. 

In addition to these funders, PitchBLACK would not be possible without the many institutional donors, public media partners, individual donors, our new PitchBLACK host committee; and the many talented coaches, mentors, producers, consultants, and staff who show up each time to help us deliver a meaningful experience for those who pitch, those who are honored, and those who attend this now annual celebration of Black storytelling excellence. 

On behalf of the BPM board and staff, I thank you all. We look forward to seeing many of you this week, but mostly, I hope you’ll continue to support the people who are dedicated enough and courageous enough to participate in this program. It isn’t easy to pitch an idea you’re passionate about to a dark room full of people, most of whom you may never see again. By continuing to support PitchBLACK, we signal to them and the wider world that media content that centers Black experiences is not only valuable and appreciated, but a good investment.      

If you still don’t have your PitchBLACK Awards tickets for Thursday night, I advise you to act fast. The box office closes TOMORROW! If you were hoping to attend the Forum, sorry. We’re already sold out! Try again next year.