Jackson Free Press

"There's nothing to do in Jackson." This is one of the most common complaints and misconceptions echoed all-around our bold new city, and Ebony Gee, 23, grows more determined to quiet those voices everyday.

"I got tired of my friends complaining about not having anything to do in Jackson besides going to clubs," she says. Hence the birth of "Southern Spirit," a weekly television program aired on Public Access Channel 18 Friday nights at 7 p.m. The purpose of the novelty show is to cover events that are going on around the metro. Ebony and her crew head out to the events as they're happening and let those who are sitting at home in on a little of the action. Also, viewers are given a heads up on the activities for the subsequent week. In a nutshell, "Southern Spirit" promotes art events happening around the state.

"Southern Spirit gives artists their 15 minutes of fame." Gee says. In fact, she says that she was even unaware of the number of creative spirits in the city until she began the show.

Gee strives to promote positive images and a point of view that is different from what is shown nightly on mainstream media.

Gee is a native of Camden, Miss., and a Tougaloo College graduate. She is also an independent filmmaker who won a grant from the Mississippi Film and Video Alliance for her first documentary, "Faces of the Frontline." It reveals the thoughts of soldiers who have fought in wars. She is currently working on a docudrama called "Miseducation."

"Miseducation" covers difficult yet significant issues that kids wrestle with daily. Its purpose is to explore the educational system here in Mississippi. A part of what drove Gee to the project was wondering, "What is Mississippi doing to help students deal with things that aren't academic?" The docudrama is slated to confront such issues as sex, drugs and violence. Local actors dramatize tough situations and interpret them in a problem-solution style.

Among Gee's industry influences are Quentin Tarantino ("Kill Bill"), Paul Haggis ("Crash"), Spike Lee ("Inside Man"). Personally, her mother is her rock. "My mom is my biggest influence. She is a strong, independent, single mom," she says, beaming.

Dedicated to the perseverance and uplift of Jackson's artistic evolution, Gee has big plans for the future. "I ultimately want to start a production company and establish a film school for younger kids similar to the Upward Bound program." She says.

"Jackson has a lot of potential. It's just going to take a lot of volunteer workers and non-profit organizations." She says with confidence.

Previous Comments

ID

82462

Comment

upward bound sure helped me.

Author

JSU

Date

2006-04-05T16:39:49-06:00

ID

82463

Comment

ebony is a good girl, and someone that should be respected for the work she does. we all have to work together, that is certainly true. the danger is everyone starting their own "thing" and no one supporting them. i caught the lea barton show she did as well as the ken stiggers and map coalition event. she's definitely one to be watched.

Author

c a webb

Date

2006-04-05T16:49:18-06:00

ID

82464

Comment

Way to go Ebony. Remember Tougaloo as you hit the big times.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2006-04-06T17:52:32-06:00

ID

82465

Comment

Our hopes for you and our prayer for you are ever withstanding Ebony. You are a light for all. There are more out there like you. We are trying to make it easier for your dreams to come true. I truly enjoy reading the positive attitudes and accomplishments of ALL of our youth.

Author

lance

Date

2006-04-07T06:07:53-06:00

ID

82466

Comment

I am elated for Ebony. I used to take Journalism classes at Tougaloo with her (when I was unsure of my major), and this girl is extremely talented!! Congratulation Ebony, I look foward to checking out your documentaries. Keep on writing girl!

Author

jan2006

Date

2006-04-10T11:31:16-06:00

ID

82467

Comment

I just caught an episode of Southern Spirit tonight, and I enjoyed it. Ebony, when did you attend Tougaloo? Your name sounds familiar. Tougaloo, Eagle Queen, we love thee, Mother Eagle, stir thy nest... Okay, enough of that. :-)

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2006-04-21T19:47:55-06:00

ID

82468

Comment

Ebony, congratulations on being named one of the Metro’s “Young Influentials.” I am very anxious to view your upcoming documentary on Mississippi’s educational system. I am planning a documentary on a well-known Mississippian and would to know what you think. I found out today that we have a mutual acquaintance. Maybe I will ask him to introduce us. Matthew Lynch

Author

lynch39083

Date

2006-04-25T14:33:01-06:00