As a child and teenager, Gulfside Assembly was very dear to me. I spent many happy, memorable summer days and evenings as a Brownie, Girl Scout and Y Teen camper at Gulfside. Sleeping in the cabins in the back of the grounds, walking across the highway for a dip in the Gulf, gathering around campfires … those were some good times in my life! As a young person, I had no clue, nor did I have interest in the historical significance of Gulfside. The documentary opened my eyes to a totally expanded view of Gulfside. It tells the story beautifully!
Lyndia GreenThis film presents more than a snapshot view of the history of “The Gulfside Assembly” retreat facility. It also takes us on an inspiring journey into the rich and resilient culture of African Americans of faith in the era of “Jim Crow” and segregation. We are introduced to Bishop Robert Elijah Jones and the other founders who had the vision to create a place, for African Americans of faith, where they could experience spiritual fellowship, religious education and family recreation that included swimming in the Gulf of Mexico. The film details how Bishop Jones and the founders faced financial challenges; personal loss; rebuilding following devastating hurricanes and a major fire and the danger of being black in Jim Crow Mississippi.
Kathy Jones Washington
The telling of the Gulfside Assembly Story was a true experience for me. It felt familiar, like my Gramma’s warm embrace, like my Nanny’s special oatmeal. The feeling was reminisce of the feelings I’d get from listening to my Gramma share stories of her life. You know, the ones that she wanted you to hear and learn from; as opposed to the ones where you were given the “look”, causing a hurried exit; as some stories were “grown folk business.” The way the Gulfside Story was told by those who had experienced life there and the blessings of their ancestors vision was especially moving to me.
Trudie Greene
Leslie Smith Everage
Daryl Dabon Jarvis
Harold Ellis Clark
J Pegues
Dr. Al Kennedy
Tessie Jackson
Connie Bouligny
Winnie Magee
Marsha Hart
Gloria Bartley Moultrie
With or without any Gulfside experiences, the film is a MUST see documentary. All the very best on future projects.”
Eileen Jackson
Joan Harrison
Documentary Screening Fundraiser: The Gulfside Assembly Story Award-Winning Film Chronicles the Legacy of a Historic Site that Shaped Lives
New Orleans, LA — On Saturday, November 9, 2024, a private screening of The Gulfside Assembly Story will be held at The George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center in New Orleans, a venue celebrated for its dedication to cultural heritage. This event will offer guests a rare opportunity to explore the riveting history of Gulfside Assembly, a place of refuge, empowerment, and progress for generations, and the visionary leader who inspired its mission.
An award-winning documentary, The Gulfside Assembly Story captures the profound legacy of Gulfside Assembly, established by Black leaders within the Methodist Church to foster spiritual growth, education, and community empowerment for African Americans in the early 20th century. Through meticulous historical research and intimate interviews, filmmaker Leonard Smith III brings to life the resilient stories of those who found hope and purpose within Gulfside’s walls.
Screening Details:
Date: Saturday, November 9, 2024
Time: 2 PM – 4 PM (Doors open at 1:30 PM)
Location: The George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center, 1225 North Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Tickets: $20 General Admission (Free Parking). Space is limited; early purchase is recommended.
The event will feature a panel discussion with filmmaker Leonard Smith III and distinguished guests, followed by a reception. Guests are invited to engage in meaningful conversation on preserving history and the legacy of Gulfside Assembly. Proceeds from ticket sales will directly support the ongoing mission of Gulfside Assembly, ensuring this historic site continues to inspire and serve future generations.
Tickets are available at www.thegulfsideassemblystory.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a documentary that has already received critical acclaim: The Communicator Award and two Telly Awards for excellence in storytelling.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Cheryl Thompson – Executive Director
Phone Number – 504 -710- 4884
Email Address – gulfsideassociation@gmail.com
About the Filmmaker
Leonard Smith III, a renowned documentary filmmaker, is known for his vivid and empathetic storytelling that brings forgotten histories to life. His work reflects a dedication to celebrating shared heritage and fostering intergenerational understanding through the power of film.
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