After nine years in the making Traces of the Trade: A Story from the Deep North premiered at the Sundance Film Festival tonight. I noticed the full moon as we crossed the Albertson’s parking lot to the Holiday Theater. Watching the film on the big screen was a revelation. I saw details I’ve never seen before. And no matter how often I watch Traces, it moves me.

When the credits began I saw three people head for the exits. Everyone else in the sold out crowd stayed through the Q&A. The questioners were engaged and their questions thoughtful. In the film I’d seen earlier the conversation with the filmmaker was terminated after about 5 minutes. I’ve heard that other conversations with the filmmakers were quite limited. Ours lasted at least 20 minutes. Traces raises issues for viewers. I was glad that more time was allowed.

It feels like a new chapter in this journey has begun. Our hope is that people will feel invited into a conversation about race in these United States. I know that most people sense that where we’re at isn’t working. Something needs to shift. Maybe this is a piece of the puzzle…