FLOWSTATE Films, a women-owned production company based in Washington, DC, along with Women in Film and Video DC, have received grant support from both the National Endowment for the Humanities ($60,000) and the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities ($5000) – development funds that will go into the company’s upcoming documentary, “Black Diplomacy” (working title), a film about the contributions of African American diplomats during the Cold War.

“Black Diplomacy” is executive produced by Emmy winner and Academy Award nominee, Sam Pollard – editor and producer of several Spike Lee films and more, as well as a director in his own right.

FLOWSTATE Films was founded in 2015 by Kiley Kraskouskas, Leola Calzolai-Stewart and Rachell Shapiro with the intention of creating impactful, authentic and socially conscious films.

“A few months ago Leola Calzolai-Stewart reached out to me about becoming involved in this documentary,” says Pollard. “I had never considered this story but when she sent me the treatment I was intrigued. After a few conversations and reading more about the US black diplomats, I knew this was clearly a film that had to be made. I am glad to become a part of the team. This film is a worthwhile endeavor.”

Indeed.

Director Leola Calzolai-Stewart adds: “We are excited to work with Sam, an insightful filmmaker whose iconic work always inspires us, as well as these respected organizations who unfailingly support the work of documentary filmmakers around the country… ‘Black Diplomacy’ is a timely story that illuminates the contributions of African American diplomats during one of the most politically and socially divisive times in our history and we appreciate the support we’ve been given to develop this story for a wider audience.”

The film is currently in the development and scripting phase until 2017.

For more information go to: http://www.flowstatefilms.com/black-diplomacy/