Programs
The spirit and purpose of the Social Justice Film Festival exist year-round through the Social Justice Film Institute, offering social justice programming and a space for social justice filmmakers, community members, and nonprofit organizations.
Our community events and educational workshops are designed with a focus on social justice. As a social justice organization, SJFI understands the critical importance of representation and access, and amplifying voices historically marginalized. We are an anti-racist organization, committed to equity and justice and will continue to present critical conversations and content around the intersectional issues which aim to spotlight and center voices from the margins.
Social Justice Filmmaking for All - First Class begins Saturday, November 1
When: Saturday Mornings, 9:00 am - 12:00 noon - Starting November 1st, 2025
Where: Pacific Tower, 1200 12th Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98144, 11th floor, Suite 11
Cost: $300
This course is designed for individuals interested in learning how to create a social justice documentary. Participants will learn how to tell their story meaningfully and with visual impact.
The class will introduce participants to screen language and sequencing, and provide hands-on experience with digital video cameras, audio systems, and professional editing systems.
Participants will work to produce short films, 3 to 4 minutes in length, about a social justice topic or issue.
*The class takes place on Saturdays, from 9 am to 12 noon. Four classes from November 1st through November 22nd.
While this is a beginner class, basic knowledge of the Apple operating system and computers is recommended.
The instructor of this workshop is teaching artist Sam Hampton, PhD. Sam is the executive director of the Social Justice Film Institute and an award-winning documentary filmmaker (hamptonfilms.com).
* This workshop is limited to 12 participants. Please register early to reserve a spot.
For more information, contact: marisa@socialjusticefilminstitute.org (253) 302-1635
Tune into our podcast series to explore social justice films and the people behind them.
RADICAL FILMS is the Social Justice Film Institute podcast featuring alumni and friends of the Social Justice Film Festival discussing all things related to social justice storytelling. The Social Justice Film podcast was created to explore and share stories about the intersection of social justice and film.
RADICAL FILMS PODCASTS hosted by John Trafton - johntrafton.com
Assistant Professor, Media Arts & Culture, Occidental College
CURRENT EPISODES - Listen here on Apple | Listen here on Spotify
Click on photos to listen.
Israel Brooks
In our latest episode, we are joined by filmmaker Israel Brooks of Fast Fire Films. Please listen as we discuss his work as a filmmaker and immigrant rights advocate, as well as his upcoming film Spanish Class (2026).
Alex Johnston
In this episode, we are joined by Alex Johnston, a professor at Seattle University and documentary filmmaker. Listen as we explore film and media activism, films about the prison industrial complex, and his latest documentary projects.
Lara Jacoski
In this episode, we are joined by Lara Jacoski of Bemtevi Productions, based in Brazil. Listen as we discuss her film and media work, which captures the stories of Indigenous people, including her recent film Eskawata Kayawai (co-directed with Patrick Belem).
Jacopo Fantastichini
In this episode, we sit down with Jacopo Fantastichini, a Miami-based Italian filmmaker, to discuss his recent film, A Healing Revolution. This documentary explores the work of "Doctors within Borders" and their care and support for Miami's unhoused population.
Gilda Sheppard
In this episode, we sit down for a conversation with Gilda Sheppard -- filmmaker, author, professor, and public speaker. Listen as we discuss her latest film, Since I Been Down (2020), and its impact on conversations about criminal justice reform, community rebuilding, and education.
Sam Hampton - Executive Director, Social Justice Film Institute
In this episode, we sit down with Sam Hampton, documentary filmmaker, teacher, and executive director of the Social Justice Film Institute.