Listen "The Story Behind the Juneteenth Film — Rasool Berry on Identity, Lament & Liberation"
Episode Synopsis
This conversation moved me — and I believe it will move you too.I had the deep joy of sitting down with Rasool Berry, the filmmaker behind Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom, for a rich and layered discussion about freedom, identity, and the power of storytelling within the context of faith and culture.We explore the historical implications of slavery, the significance of Juneteenth, and the profound role media plays in shaping cultural narratives. Rasool also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film — from funding and cross-country production to the creative distribution model that helped it reach hundreds of thousands.We also talk about lamentation — something we don’t discuss enough — and how it can be a gateway to healing. We reflect on the power of Scripture, the process of deconstruction, and what it means to walk in identity when the world tries to tell you otherwise.Rasool is one of those rare people you just want to listen to. He’s insightful, grounded, and deeply inspiring. Whether you're a filmmaker, a believer, or someone searching for a deeper understanding of the world — this episode is for you.What We Talk About:What it really takes to make a cross-country film — on a tight timelineFunding, producing, and distributing a documentary for real-world impactWhy Juneteenth is more than a date — it’s a call to remember and reclaimThe role of lamentation in healing generational painHow our identity in Christ can free us to live boldlyWhy personal stories matter more than everWatch the Juneteenth Film: https://www.pbs.org/video/juneteenth-faith-freedom-ap4dcr/Juneteenth Film Resources: https://www.odbm.org/campaigns/juneteenthLearn more about Rasool’s work: https://www.rasoolberry.com/Interested in hosting a screening? [Insert link]Key TakeawaysFreedom is a central theme in both faith and culture.Juneteenth marks a vital moment in the history of liberation.Storytelling shapes how we see ourselves and our world.Lament is not weakness — it's part of spiritual wholeness.Scripture invites us into both justice and joy.Deconstruction can be a holy invitation to rediscover truth.We must hold pain and hope together in our faith journeys.Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Rasool and His Work04:05 — The Journey to the Juneteenth Documentary08:17 — The Role of Family in Filmmaking12:38 — Funding and Distribution in Film17:07 — Exploring Faith and Freedom in Juneteenth21:07 — The Impact of the Juneteenth Film31:20 — Exploring Faith and Identity32:33 — The Process of Deconstruction34:12 — Jesus and the True Nature of Faith38:13 — The Power of Scripture and Liberation41:23 — Understanding Justice and Identity43:05 — The Challenge of Holding Dual Realities46:12 — Lamentation and Its Importance51:04 — The Legacy of Pain and Hope56:12 — Proclaiming Freedom and Identity58:15 — The Path to Spiritual Freedom01:07:39 — Understanding Identity and Its Importance01:15:22 — Practical Steps to Live in FreedomKeywords: freedom, identity, Juneteenth, faith, media, storytelling, lamentation, cultural narratives, historical context, personal stories
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