For more Rooted screenings, click HERE!
Bridget Besaw/2021/94 Min/Sustainable Food & Ag, Environmental & Social Justice, Health & the Environment
Accessibility: OEFF commits to an ongoing effort to make our events as open and as accessible as possible. Our 2026 accessibility page is HERE!
Rating, Audience & Advisory Info
Recommended ages 12+
Synopsis: In this food justice documentary, activist and urban farmer Germaine Jenkins is taking on the power structure in Charleston, SC, to counter the tide of toxic food that has ravaged her community for decades. Will this oasis in a food desert survive and advance civil rights' latest frontier, or become another mirage in the battle against food apartheid?
Accolades
"We are very enthusiastic about (Rooted), The themes of food justice, navigating local politics, and the racial dimensions of leadership and healthcare are wonderfully woven together.” 38th Annual Virginia Film Festival 2024
"Our jury felt (Rooted) was an exemplary example of independent filmmaking. I absolutely loved every frame of this film." Chair of the Feature Documentary jury for the 25th Annual Fargo Film Festival 2025
Program Information: Arrive early when doors open, and stay after the film for enlightening facilitated dialogue with relevant experts and advocates. Additional program details appear below, inline with each screening description.
Planetwalker: Dominic Gill/2025/31 Min/Historical Perspectives, Environmental Advocacy, People/Cultures
Rating, Audience & Advisory Info
Recommended ages 12+
Synopsis: After witnessing a devastating oil spill, a man takes a vow of silence and gives up motorized transport, embarking on a 17-year journey across the US to raise awareness about environmental issues, armed only with a banjo and his principles.
Awards & Accolades
Shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025, in the Documentary Short Film category
Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Winner: Artistic Vision Award
“The film offers an intimate look at how one person’s life choices intersect with larger movements, making it both inspiring and educational for viewers.” - J. Zimmerman Video Librarian
3201 S. State Street, Auditorium, Chicago, IL, 60616
Friday 4/24/2026
Doors open 4:30P for a meal, engaging with event partner tables, and to find your seat. If interested, the first 91 guests to arrive will receive a meal ticket from Alicia Bunton. Film Starts Promptly at 5:00 PM (CST).
Free with a suggested $10 donation.
A note from the host:
Join Illinois Tech, Gary Comer Youth Center, Organic Oneness, and the Bronzeville Trail Taskforce for an inspiring double-feature screening of Planet Walker and Rooted. These powerful films explore the profound intersection of environmental stewardship, personal resilience, and community heritage.
Following the films, we are honored to host Dr. Matt Smith, who will lead a dynamic discussion on the transformative power of activism and how individual steps can lead to global change.
This event is a unique opportunity to engage with local organizers and neighbors committed to a greener, more connected Bronzeville. Come prepared to be inspired, share your voice, and discover how we can collectively root ourselves in meaningful advocacy. We look forward to seeing you there!
Wayfinding:
To ensure a seamless experience for our guests, free parking is available in the university lot at 33rd and Wabash, as well as the lot on State Street located between 31st and 32nd Street.
