NAACP and Adobe Announce Participating Filmmakers for the 2026 Cinematic Shorts Competition in Chicago

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 13, 2026

Contact: [email protected]

CHICAGO -- Today, the NAACP, in partnership with Adobe, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated 2026 NAACP Cinematic Shorts Competition and participating filmmakers taking place at the 117th NAACP National Convention in Chicago, July 16 - 22, 2026.

This program affirms the NAACP's commitment to securing equitable opportunities in the entertainment industry and empowering emerging creative talent. Through this initiative, the NAACP and Adobe provide emerging storytellers with the resources, mentorship, and visibility needed to thrive.

"At Adobe, we believe creativity has the power to change perspectives, build connections, and inspire action. Through our partnership with the NAACP, we are proud to provide emerging filmmakers with access to industry-leading tools, mentorship, and opportunities that help turn their ideas into impactful stories. We look forward to seeing how this talented group of creators uses their voices and creativity to bring important issues to life," said Amy White, Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility & Social Impact Communications at Adobe.

During the Convention, six emerging filmmakers will be paired into teams of two and challenged to conceive, shoot, and edit a 5-7 minute short film in just 72 hours.

"Creating pathways into the entertainment industry is central to the NAACP's work to expand equity and representation both on screen and behind the camera. The Cinematic Shorts Competition provides emerging filmmakers with the opportunity to develop their skills, build meaningful industry relationships, and bring important stories to life. We are proud to partner with Adobe in investing in the next generation of creative leaders," said Robin Harrison, Vice President of the NAACP Hollywood Bureau.

Meet the 2026 NAACP Cinematic Shorts Filmmakers:

• Clive Anthony - Filmmaker, Brooklyn, NY

• Tori Carroll - Screenwriter & Editor, Detroit, MI

• Jade Hunter - Filmmaker, Pittsgrove, NJ

• Eli Moss - Writer & Director, Chicago, IL

• A.B. Oddman - Filmmaker, Los Angeles, CA

• Collin Riggins, Filmmaker & Photographer, Bronx, NY

The Cinematic Shorts Competition provides a platform for young adult filmmakers to showcase their storytelling skills and engage in hands-on production experiences. Working under the guidance of Program Executive Director, Logan Coles, the filmmakers will create narrative, documentary, or avant-garde short films exploring issues aligned with the NAACP's mission, including Race & Justice, Health & Well-Being, Inclusive Economy, Education Innovation, and Next Generation Leadership. Set against the backdrop of Chicago, the NAACP acknowledges the local support of Creative Cypher and the Chicago Film Office for this year's competition.

In addition to the opportunity to showcase their work before convention attendees, the winning filmmaking team will each receive a $10,000 production grant to create a short film in collaboration with the NAACP Hollywood Bureau and NAACP+ Studios. All participating filmmakers will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Los Angeles to attend the 58th NAACP Image Awards and related events, as well as exclusive meetings with leading entertainment industry executives.

For more information, interview opportunities, or media inquiries, please contact [email protected] or visit www.naacp.org.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.