Throughout his career, Haile Gerima has used his work as a critical lens for personal growth and creative development. His concern for people of African descent is evident, especially, where the representation of their image is concerned. His belief is that independent cinematic expression should counter the superficial and stereotype-laden films of Hollywood and, instead, engage socially relevant issues. Toward this end, many of Gerima’s films have been produced with grassroots, community support and/or financing from arts institutions, outside of the U.S.