Jesse Gift – EXECUTIVE PRODUCER | WRITER, DIRECTOR, PRODUCER, CAMERA, EDITOR-Told They Can’t ©
Our documentary short film, Told They Can’t ©, features the inspiring stories of ten kids who, against all expectations, triumphed over poverty and seemingly impossible hardships to become personally and professionally successful. They are a reminder for audiences that each and every child is endowed with limitless potential, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Their lives showcase what is indeed possible for all, no matter background, family income, connections, status or anything else.
The film should provoke audience members to reflect on and examine why these, now high-profile professionals of color, were always told that they can’t while growing up. Why did they hear this judgment from nearly everyone in their lives, including authority figures like school counselors, teachers, neighbors, members of their church congregations, coaches and even family members.
Told They Can’t © calls out society’s cruel indifference toward kids like the professional featured here once were, children who are growing up experiencing poverty, homelessness, hunger and neglect. Their treatment back then brings up questions and makes one wonder if this continues today. Do we as a society still tell kids like this that they can’t? Are even those in authority continuing to do this, or allowing this message to be communicated? Is society still getting it wrong?