Celebrating Community And Connection

At the March on Washington Film Festival: A Spotlight on Robert Raben    

By Kim Callinan, Founder GSD for Social Good

There’s something magical about being surrounded by people passionate about change and united by a shared purpose. That was the energy at the opening night gala of the 2024 March On Washington Film Festival, a series designed to tell the untold stories of the Civil Rights Movement, honor its trailblazers, and connect history to the future. Running through Sunday, October 13, 2024, this festival brims with excitement, camaraderie, and a promise of social progress. 

At the heart of the event was Robert Raben, president and founder of The Raben Group. His quiet, powerful way of listening and connecting infused every interaction, bringing the room to life. While the gala resulted from a dedicated team effort, Robert's presence subtly wove through the evening. Everyone I spoke to pointed to Robert as the reason they were there.  His ability to connect people, inspire action, and foster community, often from behind the scenes, is what makes him an ideal honoree for this inaugural edition of Get Stuff Done for Social Good.

Robert has been a driving force for social change, particularly in equity and justice. His role in founding the March on Washington Festival highlights his commitment to elevating voices, creating spaces for dialogue, and pushing for systemic change. This year’s events bring together artists, activists, and community leaders to honor the past and inspire future action, ensuring that the work of social justice continues.
The festival features a diverse lineup of virtual and in-person events to engage and inspire participants. Highlights include: 
​

• A Book Discussion: Host Kai Wright interviews Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson about her memoir Lovely One, an account tracing her family's journey from segregation to her historic confirmation as the first Black Supreme Court justice.
• Panel: Inside the Book Business: Featuring industry executives discussing the journey from book proposal to publication.
• The Quiet Word: A silent book reading experience focused on banned books, followed by one-on-one discussions.
• Fine Arts Prints Fair: Curated by Black Art in America, this event includes art displays, a documentary screening, and art-related panels.
• Immersive Salon: Offering hands-on experiences with augmented and virtual reality, plus a film screening and discussions on AI workforce development.
• Student & Emerging Filmmakers Competition: Screening films by 12 finalists in narrative and documentary shorts.
• Multi-Course Meal by Chef Keith Corbin: A Southern-inspired meal at the festival's closing event, The Gathering, exploring the cultural legacy of ancestral foods.

The opening night gala was just the beginning of what promises to be an inspiring series of events. I’ll be attending several, including The Gathering, and would love to connect with you there! Check out the schedule! Whether you're looking to connect with others, deepen your understanding of African American culture and history, or simply find inspiration, this festival offers something for you.

In closing, Robert Raben’s secret to Getting Stuff Done for Social Change lies in his quiet strength, talent for building relationships, and visionary leadership. He leads not from the front but from behind, empowering others to shine. His humble yet powerful presence reminds us that at the heart of every movement are the bonds we create with one another. This is the essence of his authentic leadership—the driving force behind this festival and an example of how change is made.