The Sun Rises in the East

As we now stand in the face of Black history being removed from schools, bookshelves, etc, "The Sun Rises in the East" is an important piece of not just Brooklyn, but the global African story. Capturing the impact of a grassroots community org whose impact lived well beyond its own active years, I am inspired by the power of a collective with a singular mission. The history of The East has been buried for way too long, though the fruits of its tree are everywhere you look. The film is thorough, unbiased, and well constructed helping viewers follow The East's timeline with ease.

Cannot thank the directors and crew enough for this gift!!! MustMust see!

Just watched this.

Truly eye-opening and fascinating to learn about some of the forgotten icons in Black history and what they contributed to it. So unique: learning about the roots of 1970s Brooklyn and how the organization The East was created, and how its work helped unify the Black community at that time, while also shaping Brooklyn as a borough today.

Without the work of Jitu Weusi and the other East members who came together to show how powerful Black liberation can be, Brooklyn would not have seen as much success within the community. It is because of their work that many Black-owned businesses in Brooklyn, as well as the city and state, were inspired, ultimately preserving the legacy of the East as an organization.

Thank you Jitu and The East for all your advocacy.

Thank you Tayo and Cynthia Giwa for creating this documentary: It encapsulates the spirit of Black people and our culture. I learned lots more about the history of our borough and how Black people have contributed, and will continue to contribute to it.

Wow, another great project out of Black Owned Brooklyn. I really enjoyed this - I had never heard of the East before and am blown away by its impact. The film takes such an interesting look at a movement, beginning with Brown vs. Board of Ed and taking us through a piece of history that really needed to be captured in this unique way. I was enraptured from start to finish - the storytelling is quite engaging and interesting, spotlighting the birth of an independent black nation in the heart of Brooklyn. Kudos to the team who put this together!! Highly recommend this to anyone looking to learn more.