Black History Month Spotlight: Discussion and Screening of Ryan Coogler's Sinners

Experience an evening of bold storytelling and cultural impact as the Oak Lawn Branch presents a movie viewing and discussion of Sinners in celebration of Black History Month. This event highlights filmmaker Ryan Coogler, whose work continues to push boundaries in modern cinema.

Coogler’s rise from Oakland to Hollywood has been groundbreaking. His record-shattering film Black Panther set a new benchmark for representation and became the highest-grossing movie ever directed by an African American filmmaker. Throughout his career, he has centered overlooked narratives and brought depth and visibility to marginalized characters, particularly within African American communities, reshaping what mainstream storytelling can be.

His commitment to community is equally notable. Coogler has worked closely with incarcerated youth in San Francisco and helped launch Blackout for Human Rights, reflecting a creative voice deeply connected to activism, justice, and meaningful cultural impact.

After the screening, we will explore the themes of Sinners, Coogler’s storytelling approach, and why elevating underrepresented voices is essential for culture, creativity, and genuine change. The conversation will look at how stories like these challenge stereotypes, spark reflection, and broaden the kinds of narratives that reach the screen.

February offers a moment of focus, but sustaining this dialogue beyond Black History Month is what truly moves representation and justice forward. 

This conversation is especially important to us here at the Oak Lawn Branch as we strive to celebrate, reflect, and amplify diverse voices in our community, always.