by John Reid

The Christmas holiday is one of joy and excitement, and this one was no exception as several elected officials provided the community a special gift. This evening at the Alamo Drafthouse in Woodbridge, there was a showing of the coming-of-age musical period drama film ‘The Color Purple,’ which in turn was based on the 1982 novel by Alice Walker. It was a virtual who’s who of attendees, as many of them wore purple, or variations of, in support of the film. The free screening was a collaboration between Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood, Delegate Candi King, Delegate Briana Sewell, Potomac District Supervisor Andrea Bailey, and Dumfries Councilman Tyrone Brown.

Mayor Wood opened the festivities by thanking everyone for coming out for the experience. Then, Vice President of TIME Systems Rachel Bellamy, one of the event’s sponsors, spoke on the importance of the movie in her life. “I’ve watched it several times, and it became a part of me,’ said Bellamy. She spoke of during her time at West Point her roommates would bond was by quoting different lines in the 1985 movie.

“We knew every line, we knew every song,” she continued. “It was a way for us to connect, and a way to form community, and that’s what it means to me.”

Supervisor Bailey spoke on how the movie addresses mental health challenges within the Black community. “When I look at violence, at masochistic behavior, and other negative things,” she said, “I see a promise at the end of the movie.”

“The Color Purple is essential for us to transition to the next phase out of those things that man says cannot be bettered.”

Delegate Sewell talked about how important it was for movies such as ‘The Color Purple’ to continue telling the stories of Black culture. “Born and raised in Prince William County, the daughter of two Air Force veterans where I crossed over the Edmund Pettus Bridge (in Selma, Alabama) to get to my grandmother’s house,” she said. “We are in a pivotal moment in telling the story of Prince William County. So, while we may celebrate the work of our elected officials, the true celebration is you [the people]. Because we are here to tell our story and not allow others to tell it for us.”

Afterwards Dumfries Vice Mayor Monae Nickerson spoke on what it meant to be part of the event. “I was thrilled to join our community and the Mayor for this viewing of ‘The Color Purple,’ she said. “This film isn’t just a story; it’s a powerful reflection of resilience and empowerment. It resonates deeply, especially with Black women, reminding us to continue our efforts to uplift and inspire each other.”

“Together,” she continued, “we’re not just watching a movie; we’re celebrating the strength and beauty of our diverse voices.”

Mayor Wood commented, “Providing this event at no cost was our way of giving back to the community this holiday season. The discussions and shared experience of watching ‘The Color Purple’ on Christmas Day brought us closer together, highlighting the strength and diversity of our town.”

“Gratitude is extended to Time Systems LLC, Delegates Candi King and Briana Sewell, Supervisor Andrea Bailey, and Councilman Tyrone Brown for helping make this event not just possible, but a resounding success. We anticipate organizing more such events in the future, nurturing a community that is connected, culturally aware, and united.”