This 2018 festival reflected stories of resilience–portraits of strength and action by people who are rising up, breaking new ground, and pushing their communities forward. Collectively, highlighted work from community organizations that train and support Indigenous and other filmmakers in telling their own stories. 

The Mead aims to connect viewers to cultures and communities around the world, creating empathy and understanding through visual media. Hundreds of filmmakers and scholars, thousands of moviegoers, and over 40 international nonfiction films and media converge over four thrilling days of screenings, conversations, and parties.