Marginalized Bible Women Documentary

"Used, Not Chosen" is a film series that gives permission to ask hard questions and talk about the hard things. The films are created for women by women who are not afraid to tackle some taboo subjects that some religious settings "gloss over" (rape, murder, abuse, slavery, genocide, injustice, etc.) God is not afraid of these subjects or any question you can ask, therefore this series of documentaries is "an invitation to a conversation"--with God and each other. 

This independent, "character"-driven, cinematic documentary series focuses on the stories of marginalized real women in the Bible. It was conceived after I (an African American female seminary student) became increasingly dissatisfied with the answers I was and was not receiving from my church and other leaders. After a collection of degrees (M.A., MTS, pending D.Min) and specialty training, I discovered that many others were also searching for some of the same answers. 

Some of those women have graciously joined my production team, "We have a vision that is both amazing and exciting," and we want you to come with us.  This is why we invite you to invest yourself through the resources that God has given you--your energy, your prayers, and your money--in this work to which God has called us. 

WHERE WE ARE/HOPE TO BE

Currently, we are in pre-production mode. We are requesting and scheduling interviews with theologians, storytellers, spiritual directors, rabbis, best-selling authors, psychological experts, and others. The next steps are gathering locations, sets, and costumes. This series features stories of Hagar, Rizpah, and Tamar, all of whom have storylines that can address the struggles of women today. While some of their stories may be unknown or considered extreme, they encourage women who may be trapped in trauma, abused, trafficked, fighting injustice, or are being manipulated/forced to "sit down and shut up!" Therefore, we hope these documentaries will be distributed through various live stream services. While our genre makes us look toward such services such as Pure Flix, we will pick up the phone for Netflix, too (lol).

STRETCH GOALS

If we can raise money that surpasses our filmmaking needs, we plan to financially support organizations that help women survive the unimaginable - human trafficking, healing, and helping individuals, families, & communities traumatized by violence. You can learn more about these organizations by visiting their websites: Rizpah network,  A21 network and Barbara Peacock Ministries.

The Marginalization of Women: A Biblical Value We Don't Like to Talk About

Putting the stories of women from the Bible on film not only creates an opportunity for hearing and seeing real experiences. It also puts us in the shoes of others, builds bridges of empathy, and provides a chance to understand and connect with the Bible. Reminding us that there are real people on the opposite side of an issue, the complexity and nuances of the different cultures, and the importance of honest and earnest discussions.

When emotions, fears, and hopes are presented to us as part of a personal story, they create a connection between the listener, the characters, and the teller. That connection recognizes how we're the same. It promotes understanding despite our differences, which is the foundation of building stronger communities. Stories are the best way to do this. With the addition of visuals, expertise, music, comedy, and drama, this is our attempt not only to tell a woman's story but to make the world a better place.

Throughout my academic pursuits, professional social work and ministry to eradicate human trafficking, I met several women that struggled with dark thoughts and unanswered questions (why does God allow ____). This series is a way to talk about women in the Bible not traditionally "celebrated" and who may have asked the same questions we are asking today. 

This series will help extend our reach to help women be heard and to hear. "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin"...,(Zech 4:10) There is no amount too big or too small. While some of us may not be able to donate millions of dollars, run for political office, create a new invention or any of the other things that make headlines today, there is always something we can do.  

Become part owner of this docuseries by contributing! No amount is too small. *If you are interested in a tax-deductible option, please contact us directly! This is possible separately through our fiscal sponsorship. 

From you, we need a minimum of $4,000!

*If you'd like more information regarding how this budget breaks down, please reach out! We are more than happy to share the top sheet. Thank you!

Know your role! If contributing is not in the cards for you right now, no worries! There are so many ways you can help! *Like* us on Seed & Spark, follow us on Facebook & the Insta and share the campaign with your friends on social media using the hashtag #usednotchosen #invitationtoconverstation #marinalizedwomen #biblewomen 

These are some harrowing stories we are diving into, so we welcome all encouraging words, prayers, and air hugs as well. 

THANK YOU! This is very much an "ours" kind of situation. It's such an honor to have you believe in us this way.

Thank you so much. 

We are taking all necessary Covid 19 precautions concerning our in-person interviews.