Proud: The Story of USS Mason

Civil Rights Stories and Hollywood

2007-07-10T06:46:00.000-04:00

The original screenplay for PROUD was completed not long after the book was published in February 1995. Certainly an untold compelling story about real American heroes would be snapped up and made into a feature film.

Not the case at all. It took ten years for the film to be produced and it took a benefactor -- much like in the case of the making of Ray -- to bring the story to the screen. There was also a Hollywood attitude of, "there's already been a Black war movie," the classic Glory in 1989.

As this outstanding story by Ann Hornaday points out:

"Not surprisingly for the movie industry, the answer is portrayed as purely
economic; and equally unsurprisingly, economics in Hollywood are inextricably
interwoven with the still unresolved issue of race."

Read the full story in today's Washington Post.

Side note: How good does "Talk to Me" look? Don Cheadle does it again, bringing to the screen the story of DC radio and TV personality Ralph "Petey" Greene.

Tuskegee Airmen in DC

2007-03-29T06:42:00.000-04:00

Today in Washington in a ceremony at 1 PM the Tuskegee Airmen will receive the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor that Congress can give to civilians. Speakers include Colin Powell who received the medal in 1991.

Nice story with video in The Washington Post and it made the front page of today's print edition.

ABFF 2007 in Los Angeles

2007-03-24T09:11:00.000-04:00

SUBMIT YOUR FILM NOW!

The 11th Annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF) – a five-day retreat and international film market – taking place in Los Angeles, October 25-29, 2007, is calling all filmmakers for entries. Click here to read more about the ABFF Mission. Take home one of the fest’s indie film awards, cash prizes and more...

Now on Comcast OnDemand

2007-02-24T10:10:00.000-05:00

PROUD is now available to Comcast subscribers who receive Starz inBlack.

Watch PROUD anytime for free as part of your Comcast subscription!

Now through March 22, 2007

PROUD in NYT Movies

2007-02-19T16:05:00.000-05:00

Jason Buchanan of the All Movie Guide gives a nice description of PROUD for the Movies section of the New York Times.

Also it's worth checking out the review just to get a look at the new trailer Lions Gate produced for the DVD release.

PROUD on Starz inBlack

2007-02-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

PROUD will be broadcast in February and again in late March on Starz inBlack.

Broadcast dates include:

Saturday February 24
Wednesday February 28
Monday March 12
Thursday March 22
Friday March 23
Tuesday March 27
Wednesday March 28

Check the Starz inBlack schedule for times.

Never Forget New Orleans

2006-08-29T19:05:00.000-04:00

Listen to Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans via Rhapsody performed by:

Rosemary Clooney
Earl "Fatha" Hines And His Band
Pete Fountain
Billie Holiday
N'Awlins Gumbo Kings
Louis Armstrong

Because things still aren't right

2006-08-17T06:11:00.000-04:00

Spike Lee's documentary "When The Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts" premieres on HBO on Monday August 21st. This will be very hard to watch but there is no way to not watch it.

A lot of people talk about how America should be. Mr. Lee shows us how America is in "When The Levees Broke."

I hope you can watch. As the director said in an interview, "Because things still aren't right."

Here are a couple of related stories:
Washington Post
The Times-Picayune

Remembering Carl Brashear

2006-07-26T14:46:00.000-04:00

The US Navy's first African American deep sea diver, Carl Brashear, has passed at the age of 75. A story about Master Chief Brashear's life from The Virginia Pilot can be found here. It is of further interest as it includes a comments section where people write about knowing or meeting Mr. Brashear.

In Honor of Lloyd Richards

2006-07-01T18:40:00.000-04:00

Please take a few minutes to read about the accomplishments of theater director Lloyd Richards who has passed at the age of 87. The New York Times has the story.

He worked with many greats and cultivated actors and playwrights. He directed Ruby Dee in "A Raisin in the Sun."

Mr. Richards was also a World War II veteran. He was a volunteer in the Army Air Corps and was training with the Tuskegee Airmen when the war ended.

PROUD on Comcast On Demand

2006-06-24T23:22:00.000-04:00

If you subscribe to Comcast Cable, PROUD is now available for $3.99 for a 24 hour rental.

Just use your remote to go to On Demand, and click on Movies.

USS Mason in NYC

2006-06-16T05:58:00.000-04:00

Late May - early June means Fleet Week in New York City and here's a great photo from the event. Pictured above is Ensign Brandon McPherson of the new USS Mason, DDG 87.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Lippmann, New York Post

Music and the Movie

2006-06-11T06:31:00.000-04:00

June of course, is Black Music Month. And music serves as the jumping off point and provides much of the framework for PROUD.

At the beginning of the film in present day, Lorenzo DuFau's grandson (Albert Jones) and friends (Jeffrey Nash, Eric LaRay Harvey) awaken DuFau (Ossie Davis) with some booming base. DuFau's memories of a World War II singer (Inga Davis) then carry us back to wartime and the beginnings of the story of the Mason. In an early scene, the simple act of watching white performers on the ship almost leads to a riot in port in Charleston, South Carolina.

Ultimately, and rightly so, music was a positive uplifting element to the crew during the war. Liberty in New York meant visits to the legendary clubs of Harlem. And Church music helped see them through the hard times of war, too.

You can listen to some PROUD The Movie-era hits here via RhapLink. Duke Ellington, Billie Holliday, Lester Young, Erskine Hawkins and more. All songs from Billboard's Harlem Hit Parade.

Regarding Thomas Young's Uniform

2006-05-21T08:41:00.000-04:00

A recent email posed a question about the costume worn by PROUD's Darnell Williams, who portrayed Thomas Young, the reporter on board the USS Mason. The email stated that while reporters did wear uniforms, they did not wear officer's uniforms.

Good observation and generally true. However, here's a picture of Mr. Young on board the USS Mason, published in the Norfolk Journal and Guide on September 2, 1944.

Young (right) was one of a small group of African American war correspondents. If it weren't for reporters like Thomas Young, the black community back home would have had almost no way of finding out about the heroism of African American troops during World War II.

Pictured with Young is Lt. Edward Ross, the Mason's Executive Officer.

2006-05-14T16:03:00.000-04:00

PROUD is now available from NETFLIX!

2006-05-10T18:19:00.000-04:00

In my mailbox today ...

2006-05-07T19:58:00.000-04:00

Amazon.com Now Shipping

I just received a notification from Amazon that my copies of PROUD on DVD have shipped. I hope yours have too!

2006-05-01T19:12:00.000-04:00

The Message Gets Out

Grandmaster Flash had The Message and so does PROUD. My sources (and they are good sources) tell me the showing in the Bronx was a sellout on Sunday.

Plus, PROUD on DVD has jumped from around 16000 a couple of days ago to number 5463 today in the sales rankings on Amazon.com.

Two words: Thank you.

2006-04-28T06:43:00.000-04:00

PROUD Available on DVD!

Release Date is set for May 9, put you can pre-order it from Amazon using the link to the right.

Lions Gate Home Entertainment is the distributor, and oh by the way, they are also the distributor for the outstanding Akeelah and The Bee which opens in theaters today.

2006-04-24T18:44:00.000-04:00

See PROUD in The Bronx

Through the special efforts of New York City Council member Helen Foster PROUD will show in a Special Engagement April 30, May 1, May 2 in the Bronx at the Concourse Plaza Multiplex Cinema. The movie will screen at 5:00 PM each day.

Council Member Foster was the first African American woman elected to a New York City Office from Bronx County. She was elected Co-Chair of the Council's Black, Latino and Asian Caucus.

Thank you so much to Ms. Foster for her work in getting PROUD shown in her district!

Please take a moment to contact her office and say thanks.

2006-04-05T21:42:00.001-04:00

Photo of the Day

Photo of the day on DCist: The World War II Monument in Washington DC.
Stars Originally uploaded by nayr.

2006-03-31T06:25:00.000-05:00

Some Good News on the "Digital Divide"

I remember President Clinton talking about this ten years ago but as one might imagine I haven't heard or seen much about it in recent years. This is a very upbeat story in today's New York Times. There's been progress and the drop in hardware costs has helped but high school is still way too late to be introduced to the internet.

But this story does illustrate some positive steps. And yes, the "Billy Johnson" referred to in the article is in fact the NFL's legendary "White Shoes!"

2006-03-19T22:14:00.000-05:00

ABFF Writers' Lab

Calling All Screenwriters!

Are you a writer on the path to becoming a professional screenwriter? If so, it's time to hone your craft. Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, American Black Film Festival (ABFF), in association with HBO Films, will host a seminar for up to six qualifying writers designed to provide career guidance for emerging screenwriters.

The HBO Writers Lab is a mentoring program that will offer practical insights into what to expect from script writing as a profession, with the goal of providing an encouraging and supportive environment in which to openly discuss story, the creative and "notes" process, and the challenges of writing under the guidelines of others. The session will be led by HBO Films’ vice president, Sam Martin, who oversees the development and production of feature-length projects for HBO Films. Among her most recent projects are the Emmy® and Golden Globe-winning "Lackawanna Blues" and "Empire Falls," as well as "Sometimes in April."

The HBO Writers Lab will assist in preparing selected participants for collaboration within the studio system and beyond. For entry applications, please visit www.abff.com

2006-03-11T12:52:00.000-05:00

Getting PROUD in ... Idaho

On Sunday March 5th, PROUD's Denise Nicholas was the special guest for the Idaho Black History Museum's reception and screening of the film. On Saturday there was a reading and book signing for Ms. Nicholas' new novel Freshwater Road, a story about a woman's journey into adulthood during the political and social upheavals of the civil rights movement. A portion of book sales purchased from the museum will go support its programs and activities.

2006-03-07T21:42:00.000-05:00

Rebuild the New Orleans Library

Much of the New Orleans Public Library system was destroyed by Katrina. For example, in the hard hit lower Ninth, there was "nothing salvageable" at the MLK Branch.

The photos are hard to look at, but important to see.

The New Orleans Public Library is asking for any and all hardcover
and paperback books for people of all ages in an effort to restock
the shelves after Katrina. The staff will assess which titles will
be designated for its collections. The rest will be distributed to
destitute families or sold for library fundraising. Please send your
books to:

Rica A. Trigs, Public Relations
New Orleans Public Library
219 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70112

If you tell the post office that they are for the library in New
Orleans, they will give you the library rate which is slightly less
than the book rate.

We are donating a number of books including new copies of "Proudly We Served."

2006-03-07T18:51:00.000-05:00

Meet Mason Veteran and Cast and Crew on March 12

Join Mason Veteran Lorenzo DuFau along with cast & crew members for a question and answer session on Sunday March 12 @ 4:15 PM at the Magic Johnson Theater in Harlem.

2006-03-05T18:01:00.000-05:00

PROUD Comes Home to New York

Opens March 10 for one week only ...

Magic Johnson Theater
2309 Frederick Douglass Blvd.
New York, NY 10027
212-665-6923

In 1944 the crew of the USS Mason enjoyed liberty in Harlem - an opportunity to be off the ship while enjoying some of the best food and music in the world in Harlem.

Sixty years later, a film about their lives and adventures during World War II comes to the Magic Johnson Theater.

That is bringing it back around to the beginning

2006-02-27T11:32:00.000-05:00

Birmingham News Publishes Civil Rights Photos

February 27,2006 BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Dozens of never before released photos from the civil rights era came to light this weekend after an intern discovered them buried in an equipment closet at the Birmingham News.

"The editors thought if you didn't publish it, much of this would go away," said Ed Jones, 81, a photographer at The News from 1942 to 1987. "Associated Press kept on wanting pictures, and The News would be slow on letting them have them, so they flooded the town with photographers."

On Sunday, the photos finally went to print in a special eight-page section called "Unseen. Unforgotten." Others are on the newspaper's Web site at http://www.al.com/unseen

2006-02-08T08:49:00.000-05:00

Stay home, TiVo, set that VCR. See this on Saturday Night ...

For those of you who get it on cable, The History Channel presents "Honor Deferred" on Saturday night at 8:00PM. It's produced by Al Roker, hosted by Bernie Mac and narrated by Samuel L. Jackson. Here's a story from our friends at EURWEB.com.

From the History Channel's website:

"African-Americans have fought bravely for America throughout our history. But sadly, until recently, they didn't receive deserved commendations.

This is the story of seven men who deserved the Medal of Honor for their valor during WWII, but only recently received their medals--six had already died. More than a million African-Americans served within the army's segregated ranks. Despite their bravery and courage, not one of the 432 Medal of Honors awarded went to a black soldier.

Was the army racist? Did African-Americans receive appropriate training? We explore all these issues and more in breathtaking recreations as we document the stories of the seven black Congressional Medal of Honor winners. Vernon Baker is the last living awardee. Witness as President Clinton presents these medals to Baker and the proud family members of the other six. "

To those of you who know the Mason story, this is familiar territory. To most Americans it is not.

2006-02-03T08:45:00.000-05:00

Thank You Cinefe 8 Cinema and Cafe

PROUD just completed it's run at the Cinefe 8 in Lithonia GA. Thank you so much to the staff and the theater's owners, Lee and Robin May for booking the film during January.

To learn more about the Mays please read their bio. Not only are they part of a small group of African American theater owners, they are also some of the youngest theater owners in America. Please take a moment to recognize their commitment to family owned theaters that reflect the community.

You can always see what's happening at the Cinefe 8 on their website. Or by calling 770-593-8303. They have a a number of special events coming up in February and March including:

Friday, February 10, 2006 Start time 9PM -- REEL Talk (Live Music & a Movie) hosted by Live Poets Society (www.livepoets.net)

Friday, February 17, 2006 9AM-11:30AM -- Mauldin Brand & Independent Black Film Festival (screening for kids) (www.indieblackfilm.com)

Saturday, February 25, 2006 All Shows -- NAACP DAY

Starting Tuesday, March 14-19, 2006 7PM-11PM Sun. only 4PM-7PM -- Independent Screenings hosted by Independent Black Film Association (www.indieblackfilm.com)

Friday, March 24, 2006 Start time 7PM -- International Film Festival hosted by Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney

2006-02-02T08:47:00.000-05:00

USS Mason Touches Many Historical Bases

If you've ever been to an event involving USS Mason, you have probably been struck by the demographic. You'll see a rainbow of people representing the military, academic community, and civil rights activists, with a dose of the Irish thrown in. This story brings together people you may never see in the same room otherwise.

And that's because the Mason story is American history. It's domestic civil rights, World War II, Navy, and social history of how African Americans were treated overseas. So while thank goodness we have Black History Month, we can use stories like the Mason to cross over into other areas and teach lots of different people about their own country.

Thanks to Grant County Indiana's Chronicle-Tribune for the mention of the Mason and for illustrating this case.

2006-02-01T08:22:00.000-05:00

Simply Martin and Coretta

I looked at a great many pictures on the web yesterday, but this is my favorite:

Photo from the great Crunk and Disorderly pop culture blog. Thank you, Fresh.

2006-01-31T08:16:00.000-05:00

Finally: The National Museum of African American History and Culture

It took decades of lobbying, the retirement of Jesse Helms and Dick Cheney missed the vote yesterday but the Smithsonian Board of Regents finally approved the construction of The National Museum of African American History and Culture.

But as happens so many times, the happy is mixed with the sad as this news comes on the same day as the passing of Coretta Scott King.

Congratulations to all who worked for many years on this idea, especially Congressman John Lewis of Georgia.

I hope the story of the men of the USS Mason can find inclusion at this Mall location that Congressman Lewis calls "the front door to America."

2006-01-31T08:02:00.000-05:00

Mrs. King Has Passed at Age 78

From 11Alive WXIA-TV Atlanta:

Web Editor: Sean Rowe
Last Modified: 1/31/2006 7:59:09 AM

Coretta Scott King, the beloved and outspoken wife of civil rights pioneer Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., passed away at her home in Atlanta about 1 a.m. Tuesday. She was 78.Former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young broke the news during a phone call he made to NBC's "Today" show on 11Alive. Asked how he found out about her death, Young said: "I understand she was asleep last night and her daughter tried to wake her up."Mrs. King suffered a stroke and heart attack last August. She had been working toward a recovery at home in Atlanta since her release from the hospital in September.Earlier this month, King made a celebrated public appearance at the Salute to Greatness dinner -- a major fundraiser for The King Center -- in Atlanta. Mrs. King founded the King Center in 1968, shortly after the assassination of her husband in Memphis, Tenn.The Kings were married in 1953 and had four children, Martin Luther III, Yolanda, Dexter and Bernice.

2006-01-26T08:20:00.000-05:00

Postage Stamp Honors Hattie McDaniel

This image provided by the U.S. Postal Service shows the stamp for movie actress Hattie McDaniel. McDaniel, the first black actress to win an Academy Award, was honored Wednesday Jan. 25, 2006 with a U.S. Postal Service commemorative stamp. McDaniel is the 29th person honored in the Postal Service's long-running Black Heritage stamp series. (AP)

2006-01-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

Ruby Dee Speaks at Wright State University

Civil rights activist and theatrical groundbreaker Ruby Dee entertained a crowd of all ages in the Student Union Apollo Room last Wednesday. As part of the Presidential Lecture Series and the Bolinga Center's 35th Anniversary celebration, Dee reflected on her stage career and experiences of working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

Full Story from Wright State's The Guardian Online

2006-01-17T08:35:00.000-05:00

The Thunder of Angels

Featured today on Black America Web, the Thunder of Angels recounts the story of Pfc. Thomas Edwards Brooks, a uniformed black soldier who was killed by a Montgomery police officer five years before the Bus Boycott. His crime was balking at an order to board a bus through a back door.

A basic theme of the story of the USS Mason is that throughout American history, people of African descent have defended America, many times with the assumption that if they proved themselves in the military, then the basic fairness of equal treatment would be a product of that service.

Says the book's co-author Donnie Williams, "This man gave up his life for all of us just as if he were in a war on foreign land. He was a soldier and was willing to give up his life in a war for us. He was also a soldier in another way -- a civil rights soldier -- and he did die for us all."

State Rep. Alvin Holmes of Montgomery is pushing for a statue or marker to be erected as part of the 50th anniversary, which will culminate Dec. 21, the official end of the boycott in 1956.

2006-01-13T12:01:00.000-05:00

PROUD OPENS TODAY IN THE ATL

Thank you to the Cinefe 8 for making PROUD available to Atlanta audiences! You can buy your tickets online from MovieTickets.com.

Showtimes:
11:25am, 2:00pm, 4:25pm, 7:00pm, 9:25pm

2006-01-10T16:06:00.000-05:00

PROUD's Denise Nicholas Authors Novel

Denise Nicholas has added author to her long list of credits. Publishers Weekly describes her new novel Freshwater Road:

"In her rich, absorbing debut, actress Nicholas (Room 222; In the Heat of the
Night) follows a young woman South to "trench Mississippi, gutbucket
Mississippi" during the summer of 1964. The daughter of a Detroit bar
owner/numbers runner and his estranged, class-conscious ex-wife (whose light
complexion enables her to pass as white), Celeste Tyree has enjoyed a
comfortable, sheltered middle-class life for all of her nearly two decades. ...
Sometimes gorgeous, sometimes terrifying, this novel marks the debut of a
talented writer."

2006-01-08T21:55:00.000-05:00

See PROUD in Atlanta in January

PROUD's first showing of the new year begins January 13 at the Cinefe 8 in Lithonia. Also please take time to read the biography of theater owners Lee and Robin May. These Clark Atlanta University graduates are two of the youngest theater owners in the United States.

2006-01-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

Celebrate the Life and Work of Dr. King Online

The King Center

The MLK National Historic Site

The Nobel Peace Prize

The Washington DC National Memorial

The Time Magazine Man of the Year - 1964

2006-01-03T14:22:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Ruby Dee

Ruby Dee was recently honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Women Film Critics Circle.

2005-11-30T19:21:00.000-05:00

Bus Systems' Tribute to Rosa Parks

Dozens of bus systems will keep their headlights on and keep the front seat vacant in honor of Rosa Parks on the 50th anniversary of the day she would not give up her seat to a white man on a bus in Montgomery, AL. As Tavis Smiley said, "She sat down so we could stand up."

The Montgomery Advertiser

2005-11-15T06:55:00.000-05:00

Road Trip to Elmira for Thanksgiving!

The Heights Theater in Elmira Heights, NY will show PROUD, opening on Thanksgiving Day.

For box office info, location and prices visit the theater's website.

2005-11-11T12:59:00.000-05:00

Veterans Day TV Viewing

TV One presents Buffalo Soldiers, and Port Chicago Mutiny. Check your local listings or TV One's website for times.

IMAGE: The Port Chicago Mutiny website

2005-11-03T17:41:00.000-05:00

Listen to Speakers on The Rosa Parks Legacy

From BlackAmericaWeb

2005-11-03T06:20:00.000-05:00

Brothers Served on Mason and in Tuskegee Airmen

Charles P. Bailey Sr. was born in 1918, grew up in Punta Gorda, Florida and served in the Tuskegee Airmen. He died in 2001.

Bailey, a lieutenant, received a four-leaf cluster Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He saw duty in North Africa and European theaters. He flew 133 missions and never lost a bomber.

A bronze bust of Bailey was dedicated at the Naval Air Station Museum, 910 Biscayne Boulevard, in Deland Florida on October 29.

All of Mr. Bailey's brothers served in the military including Harding C. Bailey, who was an electrician's mate 2nd class aboard the USS Mason.

Here's the story from the Sun-Herald.

2005-10-27T07:05:00.000-04:00

See PROUD in 2006

Opening in a city near you starting in mid-January. Please e-mail us about group sales.
In the meantime we encourage you to join the mailing list and check back here for updates.

2005-10-26T07:15:00.000-04:00

Ruby Dee On Her Own

A nice story from Insight News.

2005-10-08T13:17:00.000-04:00

Getting PROUD in Upstate New York

In many ways, PROUD has it's roots in upstate New York. It's hometown to producer Ally Hilfiger's dad and much of the film was shot there. So many people have come through over the years to make the movie possible, and Elmira has a special place on the Honor Roll.

Make sure to read these stories from the Elmira Star Gazette:

Movie Shot in Elmira

and

Hilfigers 'Proud' to be part of film

2005-10-05T06:45:00.000-04:00

Proud Comes "Home" to Buffalo

PROUD begins a run at the Market Arcade in Buffalo this week. It is a homecoming for the movie as much of it was filmed there.

Today's Buffalo News tells the story ...

2005-09-29T18:48:00.000-04:00

Constance Baker Motley, Civil Rights Trailblazer, Dies at 84

Please take a minute to read this article in today's New York Times about the amazing life of Judge Constance Baker Motley.

2005-09-24T08:29:00.000-04:00

The Washington Post Gets PROUD

"So here you are, a black sailor surrounded by white seamen ready to beat you down simply because you are black. And to sweeten the pot, one of your commanding officers, also white, walks by the fray and calls you the N-word -- then keeps stepping. Who's going to blame you if you kick some butt, then chuck your uniform into the Atlantic?"

Read the full story ...

2005-09-23T16:20:00.000-04:00

Annapolis Mayor Hosts Party for PROUD

Mayor Ellen O. Moyer will host a special screening of PROUD at 4:40 p.m. on Saturday at the Crown Harbour Center IX in the Annapolis Harbour Center off Route 2.

Mary Pat Kelly will be there along with Mason crewmember Lorenzo DuFau. Also in attendance will be the film's composer Tasso Zapanti.

Tickets are only $5.25!

2005-09-20T16:12:00.000-04:00

Getting PROUD in The Bronx Beat

Here's a story worth a re-read from PROUD's screening at the Tribeca Film Festival back in April. A nice biographical piece on Lorenzo DuFau by Rebekah Gordon. Bronx Beat is a publication of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

2005-09-20T07:57:00.000-04:00

In Honor of a Buffalo Soldier

As PROUD is about to open in theaters and on the day Mason veteran Lorenzo DuFau will be honored at the Navy Memorial, take a minute to read this story from today's Washington Post.

Mark Matthews, believed to be the oldest of the remaining Buffalo Soliders, was laid to rest yesterday at Arlington National Cemetary with full military honors.

African American men became Buffalo Soldiers for the same familiar reasons they participated in the American Revolution, the US Civil War, World War I and II. A sense of patriotic duty, a feeling that military service would create opportunity, a desire to show the ability to do any job any white soldier or sailor could do. A chance to get away from the fields or small segregated towns.

These are our American heroes. They did everything that was required for no recognition ... or terrribly belated recognition ... even to this day.

2005-09-19T14:35:00.000-04:00

Our friends: The US Navy Memorial Foundation and the National Naval Officers Association

When you are working on tight deadlines with no budget, you have to count on your friends. The USS Mason crew and the movie PROUD has a number of loyal friends who have always been there to "step up."

The US Navy Memorial Foundation and the National Naval Officers Association (NNOA) are joining for a special ceremony to recognize Mason veteran Lorenzo DuFau. NNOA and the Navy Memorial will make their presentations to Mr. DuFau, outside, on the U.S. Navy Memorial at 5 p.m., on Tuesday, September 20.

The Navy Memorial hosted one of the first screenings of a rough cut of PROUD back in June 2003 with Ossie Davis in attendance.

2005-09-13T05:45:00.000-04:00

Send the kids to the movies

PROUD has been rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America.

2005-09-09T14:55:00.000-04:00

Time to Get PROUD!

PROUD opens in theaters in the Washington/Baltimore area on September 23, 2005.

Click on theaters or visit the newly re-launched Proud the Movie Official Site.

The trailer is about to hit theaters.

2005-08-12T09:56:00.000-04:00

PROUD to Premier in The Nation's Capital

The National Archives, in cooperation with the Congressional Black Caucus’ Veterans Braintrust and the Foundation for the Advancement of African-American Film, presents the Washington, DC, premiere of Proud on September 21, 2005.

Here's the announcement ...

2005-08-12T07:00:00.000-04:00

US Marine Corps Honors Mason Veterans at PROUD Screening

World War II veteran, Petty Officer 1st class Lorenzo A. DuFau, a former signalman of USS Mason poses with Marines of 6th Communication Battalion before being escorted to his seat for the screening of “Proud” at the Apollo Theater. Photo by: Cpl. Lameen Witter, USMC

Read the full story here. And make sure you read Mr. DuFau's quote at the end. It will inspire you!

Source: New York City Public Affairs, United States Marine Corps
Story Identification #: 200584134944
Story by Cpl. Lameen Witter

2005-08-12T06:39:00.000-04:00

PROUD at The Apollo Photos

Dr. Hasna Muhammad, daughter of Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, her husband and sons: ( L to R) Wali Muhammad, Jihaad Muhammad and Muta 'Ali' Muhammad

Congressman Charles Rangel; Johnson Publishing VP Jeff Burns, Jr.; Lorenzo DuFau - PROUD is based on his life. Ossie portrays him; Tommy Hilfiger, film's executive producer and financier.

Source: AFRICAN AMERICAN NEWSWIRE

2005-08-11T20:23:00.000-04:00

John H. Johnson: Ebony Founder

It is with sadness we mention the passing of Ebony Magazine's Founder, John H. Johnson, occurring within a few days after the screening of PROUD at "Hollywood in Harlem."

Richard Prince's Journal-isms quotes Howard University School of Communications Dean Jannette Dates, who had just returned from the New York Screening on the legacies of Ossie Davis and Mr. Johnson. You can read John H. Johnson's official biography here.

First Issue of Ebony Image from The Robert C. Maynard Institute for Journalism Education

2005-08-04T05:51:00.000-04:00

What a Night: PROUD at the Apollo

A tribute to Ossie Davis attended by family members ... Mason veterans along with members of the Tuskegee Airmen in attendance ... not to mention an appearance by THEntertainment's Tommy Hilfiger ...

Here's a link to EURWEB's story. Thanks to writer Marie Moore for saying, "put it on your must see list."

2005-08-02T06:17:00.000-04:00

PROUD: Tonight at The Apollo

Hollywood in Harlem Film Festival presents PROUD tonight at the legendary Apollo Theater!

Thanks to Ebony Magazine for making this special presentation of the film possible. To have the film associated with the Apollo is not just a plus for the movie, but another validation for the Mason crew and their accomplishments.

It's Tuesday, it's a hot August day in NYC. Why not get yourself uptown tonight and see a movie?

2005-07-29T07:52:00.000-04:00

Ossie and Ruby Chosen as Marian Recipients

Ossie Davis was there that day in 1939 when opera star Marian Anderson, barred by the Daughters of the American Revolution from singing in the Capitol's Constitution Hall, performed her famous concert at the Lincoln Memorial.

Here's the full story from the Philadelphia Daily News.

Marian Anderson Photo credit: National Coalition to Save Our Mall

2005-07-28T06:01:00.000-04:00

Another Circle Completes for The Mason

The story of the USS Mason has been typified by circles. Circles of completion as their story finally gets told. From the ship's commissioning in Boston to a 1995 reunion ... African American World War II veteran Ossie Davis portraying a veteran in Proud ... Fashion Icon Tommy Hilfiger financing a film about Lorenzo DuFau who worked in New York's Garment District in his first job out of the Navy ...

The Men of the Mason, like all sailors, loved liberty (time off the ship.) And can you imagine a better place to take liberty than at the Apollo Theater in Harlem in 1944 or 1945?

And now, all these years later, another Mason circle completes as the Apollo hosts Proud on August 2nd as part of the Second Annual Hollywood in Harlem Film Festival.

Apollo Theater Photo Credit: Apollo Theater

2005-07-26T17:26:00.000-04:00

EBONY Presents Hollywood in Harlem Film Festival
PROUD

Tuesday, August 2, 2005
Apollo Theater
253 West 125th Street Harlem, New York
Sponsored by Cadillac

5:30 pm VIP Reception
7:00 pm Tributes to Ossie Davis
8:00 pm Film Screening

2005-07-18T20:59:00.000-04:00

Black Theatre Fest to Honor Ossie Davis

The 25th National Black Theatre Festival, featuring over 100 performances, workshops, and seminars -- and a special tribute to the late Ossie Davis -- will kick off Aug. 1 in Winston-Salem, N.C., transforming the small city into a thriving hub of African-American theatrical art.

Read the full story ...

2005-07-18T06:50:00.000-04:00

Irish America Magazine

Here's a good story from the latest issue of Irish America magazine. Director Mary Pat Kelly reminds us how Hollywood and media will shrug off stories that are different whether the topic is Northern Ireland or African Americans in World War II. Also, producer Ally Hilfiger talks about being inspired by Mason crewmember Lorenzo DuFau.

2005-07-11T06:15:00.000-04:00

NAACP Armed Services and Veterans Awards Dinner

On July 12, 2005 as part of the NAACP Annual Convention, a clip from PROUD will be shown at the Armed Services and Veterans Awards Dinner.

Many thanks to LT Jeff Burrell of the Navy Equal Opportunity Office for including PROUD in this year's event and inviting the Men of the Mason to attend.

2005-07-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

Ossie Davis Interview March 2003

While doing one of my regular Google searches for new stories about the USS Mason, I found this video on democracynow.org. (You can also listen or read the transcript if you have a slower internet connection.)

The interview is from March 2003 and there's Ossie Davis, wearing his USS Mason cap. Eloquent as ever, he is talking about the war in Iraq and his days in the military during World War II in the context of a favorite Ossie Davis theme: peace.

Watching a now two year old interview, I am struck that sadly, not much has changed.

2005-06-22T06:24:00.000-04:00

The Return of Purlie

The Pasadena Playhouse presents a 35th Anniversary run of Purlie

Music by Gary Geld • Lyrics by Peter Udell
Book by Ossie Davis, Philip Rose, Peter Udell
Directed by Sheldon Epps

June 24 - July 31, 2005

Also you would certainly want to make plans for A Conversation with Ruby Dee on July 2nd.

Ossie Victorious! Purlie Victorious!

2005-06-21T15:40:00.000-04:00

Urban World Film Festival

PROUD will be screened at the Urban World Film Festival in New York City!

Jun 23rd 12:45 PM-2:15 PM at Loews Cineplex 34th Street, #13
Jun 25th 2:15 PM-3:45 PM at Loews Cineplex 34th Street, #13

Tickets are $9.50 and can be purchased through Fandango.

2005-06-20T05:57:00.000-04:00

Congressman J.J. "Jake" Pickle

One of only six southern members of Congress to vote for the 1964 Civil Rights Act, former Congressman Pickle died on Saturday at the age of 91. You can read more about this legendary member of Congress in The Austin American-Statesman (registration required.) Also, read the New York Times story.

My wife worked for him for a time so I was able to spend some time around Mr. Pickle and his staff. For them, it was always the people. Always. It sounds at least old-fashioned to say something like that in 2005, but it was true. You could use Jake Pickle as a definition for the term "public servant."

In the online guest book, someone wrote that Mr. Pickle helped them when nobody else would. Does that sum it up?

If you made a request to his office, you would hear back from someone within three days. Test your Member of Congress with that one ...

2005-06-06T06:24:00.000-04:00

Tommy Hilfiger Makes "the Cut"

PROUD would not have been made without Tommy Hilfiger. While developing possibly the most recognizable designer label in the industry his philanthropic efforts are conducted more quietly as well as entertainment projects like PROUD.

Now, Tommy steps out front with a new reality series, "The Cut," premiering June 9 on CBS. Here's an interesting New York Times story about the show as well as how TV shows go from concept to your cable menu.

Official "The Cut" Website

2005-06-01T17:40:00.000-04:00

60th Anniversary of the End of WWII

There are a number of official events being planned around the US to mark the 60th Anniversary of the end of World War II and to again honor the veterans.

A rather stunning statistic from the site:

"Among all males aged 75 or over in 2005, 50 percent will be WWII veterans, while 1.5 percent of all women of that age will be WW II veterans."

2005-05-30T19:38:00.000-04:00

Remembering Billie Holiday

In PROUD, a recurring theme is music. The music of Harlem and Ireland helps set times and places in the story. At the beginning of the film, Lorenzo DuFau, his grandson and his grandson's friends bond over a love of legends like Lester Young, Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday, setting another theme: the connections over generations.

Billie Holiday was born 90 years and Billie Holiday: The Ultimate Collection, is a two CD/one DVD collection of her performances. Here's a good story about the music and the artist from NPR.

2005-05-18T22:53:00.000-04:00

We could take a lesson from the squirrels (ok, insert nuts in the nation's capitol joke here) in DC. Seems black squirrels were brought in about 100 years ago, and according to the Washington Post story:

He (retired University of Maryland professor Vagn Flyger) has studied their behavior ... and determined that the squirrels don't appear to treat each other differently because they are black or gray.

"They don't seem to care," he said.

2005-05-12T05:59:00.000-04:00

Take a look at this article from today's New York Times. It gives great examples of how movies like PROUD are being made ... and are succeeding ... outside the Hollywood system.

2005-05-03T10:04:00.000-04:00

Belfast Telegraph

A great story about how Northern Ireland sees the film as such a positive. And, yes, they "out" Tommy Hilfiger as one of the extras!

From PROUD: Mason sailors run back to their ship in Derry.

2005-04-27T10:05:00.000-04:00

As far as we could tell, over 300 people showed up on a rainy, windy, not-so-spring-like NYC day for PROUD at Tribeca. People on line who couldn't get in were given vouchers for a future showing to thank them for their time and interest.

Thanks to everyone who came ... including New York's Governor, The Honorable George Pataki!

More news on the way about New York City theatres and dates along with other cities.

To be continued ...

2005-04-23T22:07:00.000-04:00

The crowd defies temperatures in the mid 40's and threats of rain to line up for the sold out Tribeca screening of PROUD.

2005-04-22T19:20:00.000-04:00

Ossie Davis' final guest star appearances on "The L Word" begin Sunday night.

Showtime
Sunday, April 24
10pm ET/PT

2005-04-22T19:09:00.000-04:00

The New York Post comes through with another nice mention of the film today.

2005-04-19T10:04:00.000-04:00

From Page Six in Today's New York Post:

SECOND CAREER
FORGET fashion — Tommy Hilfiger's freshest foray is film. The designer and his daughter, former reality-TV "Rich Girl" Ally Hilfiger, have collaborated to produce "Proud," a story of African-American sailors during World War II. The historical drama, directed by Mary Pat Kelly, debuts Saturday at the Tribeca Film Festival. "These sailors were treated poorly in the U.S.," Hilfiger told PAGE SIX's Lisa Marsh, "while they were treated like heroes in Ireland, where they were stationed." "It was a completely new world for me," Ally said. While she's concentrating on her painting, she'd said she'd like to produce another movie someday.

2005-04-14T12:05:00.000-04:00

Ossie Davis' Legacy

This movie has become a major milestone in the history of film, due to the fact that is the last movie Ossie Davis starred in. It is now a legend in more ways than just being a major part of black history.

"January 11, 2004 was the last time I saw and spoke to Ossie before he passed. His last words to me were: 'Mary Pat, I will do whatver you want me to in order to promote this movie, just tell me what I have to do'."- Mary Pat Kelly Writer and Director

Now that Ossie Davis has died, I believe he is watching over the success of this movie. He knows how important it is not only for the African American veterans of the USS Mason, but for history itself.

2005-04-14T09:50:00.000-04:00

Amsterdam (MD) News ...

PROUD gets a mention in the Amsterdam News

http://www.amsterdamnews.com/News/article/article.asp?NewsID=55982&sID=37

2005-04-13T11:10:00.000-04:00

PROUD in Playbill

PROUD received a nice mention in Playbill's story about Tribeca and the number of stage actors associated with the movie.

http://www.playbill.com/news/article/91984.html

2005-04-12T19:36:00.000-04:00

PROUD has been designated as a Special Event! This means you can now see the movie for free, but admission is on a first come, first served basis with only 175 seats available. So see you early!

Saturday, April 23, 2005
4:00 PM
Regal Battery Park 6 Theatre
NYC

The festival receives some 3,000 entries a year. Of the 250 films being shown this year, 60 are world premieres, eight are international premieres and 34 are North American premieres. Filmmakers from 44 countries on six continents will be represented.

The Tribeca Film Festival was founded in 2002 by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff as a response to the attacks on the World Trade Center. Now in its fourth year, the Festival's mission is to create platforms for filmmakers to reach the best possible audience for their work.

2005-04-11T17:28:00.000-04:00

Albert Jones, the great Ossie Davis, Jeffrey Nash and Erik LaRay Harvey
in an early scene from PROUD.

Welcome ...

to the official blog for the feature film PROUD, a Special Event at the 2005 Tribeca Film Festival. Check back for news and reports from Tribeca and beyond!