Cycles of Resilience Embarks on a Journey Through Black History - MovieMaker Magazine

      Ya’Ke Smith's Cycles of Resilience introduces an innovative approach to sharing Black history: through biking.

      The documentary highlights the Black History Bike Ride, an Austin nonprofit established by cyclist Talib Abdullahi, aiming to educate people via bike journeys to historical landmarks. Participants ride, dine, learn, and celebrate a history that has frequently been neglected or obscured.

      It is uncommon to merge exercise, education, and activism. Although learning should not inherently be viewed as an act of resistance, it takes on that role in light of various states and the Trump Administration's attempts to erase Black history.

      “Occupying space, appearing in significant numbers, and staying connected to others dedicated to change are essential acts in shaping a new world,” states Smith, a film professor at the University of Texas at Austin. “Systems of power thrive on fear and isolation. They rely on individuals being too intimidated to protest, too fragmented to unite, and too disheartened to envision meaningful change.”

      He continues: “These forces perpetuate their power primarily by sowing division, as they recognize that when people unite around a shared vision and common goal, their hold on power becomes increasingly tenuous. Coming together to learn, strategize, and speak truth is crucial. It not only fortifies solidarity within communities but also serves as a potent reminder that collective action has historically been one of the most effective means of confronting injustice. By uniting, we prove that the strength of the many outweighs that of the few.”

      Cycles of Resilience screens Saturday and will be available for streaming Sunday at the Waco Indie Film Fest, an event organized by Samuel Thomas and Louis Hunter, and recognized as one of our 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.

      We spoke with Smith, whose past works include the documentary Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom and the recent short “The Ohio, Texas Remix,” about striving for a brighter future.

      Ya’Ke Smith on Cycles of Resilience and the Black History Bike Ride

      Cycles of Resilience director Ya’Ke Smith – Credit: Courtesy of Greg Schnabel

      MovieMaker: How did you learn about these remarkable bike rides?

      Ya’Ke Smith: I was aware of the ride, but as someone who doesn’t cycle much, I kept my distance. That changed when Talib Abdullahi, founder of the Black History Bike Ride (BHBR), received a grant from the City of Austin to make a film about the organization. Someone familiar with my previous documentary, Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom, recommended me for the project.

      When Talib and I met for lunch and he shared the story of BHBR, I was immediately intrigued. He started the organization following George Floyd’s murder with a goal not only to foster community but also to educate Austinites about the rich Black history present in their own neighborhoods. As a filmmaker, professor, and activist who believes in cinema's power to educate, inspire, and provoke dialogue, I was eager to help bring that story to life.

      MovieMaker: This film and Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom both focus on preserving and honoring true history. Do you find your filmmaking increasingly blending with historical scholarship? If so, why do you think that is?

      Ya’ke Smith: My intention with these two films was to share our history in hopes of opening avenues for a better future. While both films investigate complex and often suppressed histories, challenging the systems that seek to uphold distorted narratives, they embody the spirit of Sankofa: looking back to the past to foster a stronger, more unified present and future.

      I approach this work without the illusion that we will all come together into an ideal future. However, I do believe that confronting our history with truthfulness, humility, and the bravery to address its injustices can help us lay the groundwork for a future that holds more promise than our current reality.

      MovieMaker: What is your process for filming an event like this? Any inspirations or references? Do you need waivers from participants since they are in public spaces?

      Ya’Ke Smith: A lot of meticulous planning is involved. Talib, producer Lauren Vunderink, cinematographer Riley Engemoen, and I spent countless hours discussing the film's visual language, debating which sites would be most visually compelling, and determining what equipment we needed to comprehensively and dynamically capture the ride.

      Ultimately, we utilized three main cameras, a drone, and GoPros mounted on several bikes. This combination allowed us to create an immersive experience for viewers. I wanted the audience to feel like active participants rather than passive observers; I aimed for them to experience the ride, flow through the city, hear the stories, and embrace the energy and community among the cyclists.

      I also want to acknowledge Brandon Grant and Ariel Marlowe, who are both essential members of the organization. They provided invaluable assistance throughout the process, ensuring that the ride went smoothly and safely. Their behind-the-scenes support played a crucial role in making the