The Virus of Hate is seeking uplifting, inspiring films that tell the stories of the ordinary and extraordinary. We are looking for stories that share challenges between individuals; stories that talk about the pain caused by hate; stories that share the love caused by tolerance; real stories that encourage a positive narrative, positive movement and positive change.

More than ever, hate and fear of others is front-page news and is one of the most critical issues confronting us globally and nationally. We need the artists and filmmakers to share stories to educate and inspire action at all levels of society. We seek innovative films about race that may not be immediately recognized in more traditional venues.

Selected films will enjoy wide visibility through concerted promotion in national and international media as well as partner social media. We intend to have a discussion and Q&A follow each screening to engage the audience with visiting filmmakers' creative team, policy makers and local experts on the issues raised by the films. We will be combining the films to make a larger tapestry that will be submitted for distribution on national television programming.

We are dedicated to bringing the power of film to bare on the current climate of hate and pain; our aim is to share stories that will positively impact society; change some minds, mend some hearts, and encourage unity not distance. Through the power and artistry of film, we seek to highlight the human, intimate, side of race and difference among and between the people involved, to humanize and inform the public debate in a world where so many are struggling under the weight of poverty, violence, lack of opportunity, social injustice, arbitrary political boundaries, and often dysfunctional or abusive political and social systems.

Films must not exceed 5 minutes in duration.

Awards & Prizes

For the 2020 festival, we will be awarding Laurels for all selected films.

Additional awards and information will be announced after official selections are made.

Rules & Terms

The Virus of Hate is hereby granted the right to utilize the submitted film project or an excerpt from any film submitted and for promotional purposes. If your film or project is chosen to be included in this collaboration, the individual or corporation submitting the film hereby warrants that it is authorized to commit the film for use/participation, and understands and accepts these requirements and regulations. Upon acceptance, all rights must be held or disclosed. The undersigned shall indemnify and hold harmless the organizers of The Virus of Hate from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney's fees, and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, pitches, screening, and loss of or damage to the screening videos submitted.

The applicant holds the sole responsibility of copyright clearance of any copyrighted material in the film. Films including unauthorized copyrighted material are ineligible.

Films not in English must be subtitled in English unless dialogue is minimal and not necessary for the comprehension of the Film.

Films must not exceed 5 minutes in duration.