Gordon Parks

A free community screening of the film “A Choice of Weapons: Inspired by Gordon Parks” is planned as part of Black History Month from 2 to 4 p.m. Feb. 6 at the Oceanside Museum Of Art, 704 Pier View Way.

The event is hosted by the Oceanside Museum of Art in collaboration with the Oceanside Public Library and the North County African American Women’s Association. 

The film looks at the legacy of Gordon Parks, a trailblazing photographer, writer, filmmaker and activist whose work documented everyday life from the early 1940s into the 2000s, while exploring the social and economic impact of poverty and racism. Parks died in 2006 at age 93.

The production examines the power of Parks’ photographic images in fostering social justice. The film highlights his visionary work and its impact on the next generation of artists. The documentary, directed by John Maggio, was made in co-production of Kunhardt Films and HBO.

Free copies of Parks’ autobiography, “A Choice of Weapons,” will be given out at the event while supplies last. 

A book discussion is set for 5:30 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Civic Center Library and an “Art in Conversation” dialogue and performance will be held at 2 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Star Theater, hosted by Alyssa (Ajay) Junious and BJ Robinson. The two artists will highlight Black artists who have made an impact on their work and will show their new work, which is inspired by the writings and contributions of Parks. In the conversation, both artists will address how art can be “an act of resistance and collective healing.” The interactive event will include community discussion.