Fisher to Host Screening of “Shadows of the Lynching Tree”

As part of the ongoing dialogue around race, equity, inclusion, and diversity, St. John Fisher College will host internationally acclaimed filmmaker Dr. Carvin Eison to present his documentary, “Shadows of the Lynching Tree.” The screening begins at 6:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 26, in Basil 135. Hosted by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Diversity Programs, it is free and open to the public.

“This film screening is one of the ways the College is fostering conversations around issues of race and equity,” said Matha Thornton, vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Fisher. “Mr. Eison’s documentary is deeply impactful, and we are pleased to have him join us in presenting it to our students and community.”

A renowned filmmaker and the videographer of record for Garth Fagan Dance, Eison has produced and directed several award-winning works include “July ’64,” “Oatka Trail,” “A Rose for Livvy,” “Angel of Mine,” “Looking Out 4 U,” and most recently, “Shadows of the Lynching Tree.”

The 2010 documentary explores contemporary issues of racism and inequity while recounting the brutal 1916 lynching of Jesse Washington in Waco, Texas.

Eison is an associate professor at The College at Brockport, where he teaches television/video/film production and media literacy; general manager for Rochester Community TV; project director of Re-Energizing the Legacy of Frederick Douglass; and a member of the board of directors of the Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives.

Following the film screening, Eison will foster a dialogue about the historical use of racial epithets.