Press & Media
Welcome to the BIFA Press & Media Center. Journalists and media professionals can access current news, festival information, approved photographs and official media contact details.
Media Contact:
Thomas Carter
Founder, Black Independent Filmmakers Association
Phone: (281) 793-2619
Email: admin@blackindependentfilmmakersassociation.com
Website: BIFAFilm.com
Latest Press Release
SEPTEMBER 1, 2026
HOUSTON'S BIFA FILM FESTIVAL CELEBRATES BLACK CINEMA, ROOTS, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
Two-day event features 19 independent films, a free outdoor Gumbo Festival and a Red Carpet Awards Gala honoring the 50-year legacy of "Roots"
HOUSTON, Texas - The Black Independent Filmmakers Association will present the 2026 BIFA Film Festival on Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, at the Community Collective for Houston, located at 12401 S. Post Oak Rd., Houston, Texas 77045.
Presented under the theme "Roots & Culture: Stories That Matter," the two-day celebration will bring together independent filmmakers, actors, writers, artists and members of the Houston community for film screenings, filmmaker conversations, live entertainment, vendors, youth engagement and a special commemoration of the 50-year legacy of Alex Haley's "Roots."
The Saturday Film Festival will take place from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. and feature 19 independent films presented across two screening spaces. The program includes feature films, shorts, documentaries and stories addressing family, history, identity, culture and contemporary life.
An all-day Film Festival Pass is $20.
Outside the screening areas, the community is invited to enjoy the BIFA Gumbo Festival from noon until 7 p.m. Admission to the outdoor Gumbo Festival is free. Gumbo and other refreshments will be available for purchase.
"This festival is more than an event - it is a declaration that our stories matter and that we have the right to own how those stories are told," said Thomas Carter, founder of the Black Independent Filmmakers Association. "BIFA is creating a place where independent filmmakers can be seen, heard and celebrated. We want people to leave inspired by the films, connected to the filmmakers and proud of the stories coming from our community."
The celebration will continue Sunday, October 4, with the BIFA Red Carpet Awards Gala from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m.
The gala will recognize outstanding independent films and performances while honoring Dr. My Haley with the Lawson Lifetime Humanitarian Award. The evening will also commemorate the 50th anniversary of "Roots" and its continuing cultural influence on generations of writers, filmmakers and audiences.
The gala will be hosted by Dr. Winnie King and will feature a keynote address from Melinda Spaulding Chevalier, vice president for public affairs at Rice University, along with a special "Roots" tribute performance.
Sunday's Red Carpet Awards Gala is a separately ticketed event.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3
BIFA Film Festival: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Film Festival Pass: $20
Outdoor Gumbo Festival: Noon-7 p.m.
Gumbo Festival admission: Free
Food purchases are separate.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4
Red Carpet Awards Gala: 5:30-9 p.m.
Separately ticketed event
Location:
Community Collective for Houston
12401 S. Post Oak Rd.
Houston, Texas 77045
Tickets and complete festival information are available at BIFAFilm.com.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES
Members of the media may request interviews with BIFA founder Thomas Carter, participating filmmakers, actors, festival honorees and other featured guests. Advance requests for red-carpet access, photography, video coverage and on-site interviews are encouraged.
ABOUT THE BLACK INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS ASSOCIATION
The Black Independent Filmmakers Association is a Houston-based organization dedicated to supporting, developing and celebrating Black independent filmmakers and storytellers. Through festivals, screenings, workshops, educational programs and community partnerships, BIFA creates opportunities for independent voices to present authentic stories and connect with audiences.
BIFA's guiding declaration is simple and powerful: We Own Our Stories.
Media Contact:
Thomas Carter
Founder, Black Independent Filmmakers Association
Phone: (281) 793-2619
Email: admin@blackindependentfilmmakersassociation.com
Website: BIFAFilm.com