Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.What is ABFF?

The American Black Film Festival (ABFF), founded in 1997, is an annual event that empowers Black artists and showcases a wide range of entertainment content made by and about people of African descent. This year, the 28th annual Festival will take place in Miami Beach June 12-16 and stream on ABFF PLAY from June 17-24.

2.What is the ABFF’s mission?

Dedicated to the belief that diverse artists deserve the same opportunities as their mainstream counterparts, ABFF Founder Jeff Friday conceived the festival as a vehicle to strengthen the Black entertainment community by fostering resource sharing, education and artistic collaboration.

3.Who runs the American Black Film Festival?

Festival leadership is comprised of its producers, Jeff and Nicole Friday, alongside the newly appointed Creative Director, Issa Rae. ABFF is a property of NICE CROWD, a Los Angeles-based live events company that develops and produces properties in the arts, entertainment, lifestyle, and wellness industries that showcase BIPOC culture and talent.

4.Who attends the festival?

Each year more than 7000 people, including artists, executives, and film fans, attend the ABFF.

5.Must you be Black to attend the festival?

No, the festival is open to people of all ethnic backgrounds. ABFF was founded to foster diversity and inclusion in the film and television industry, and we encourage everyone to attend.

6.Will a contact list of attendees be available?

No, due to our privacy policy, attendees’ names are not shared.

7.Can children attend the festival?

While the festival is not specifically programmed for children, many of our events are suitable for younger audiences, unless otherwise specified. We believe in the power of film and storytelling to inspire and engage people of all ages. However, we trust parents and guardians to use their discretion in determining which events are appropriate for their children to attend. Please note that for events where alcohol is served, attendees must be 21 years or older, in accordance with legal requirements.