SPECIAL RECOGNITION: Original Approach to History - Latest Generation Film Contest

SPECIAL RECOGNITION: Original Approach to History

Extra Ordinary Girls: Stories from the Underground Railroad

Mariam Umar, Illiana Ambriz, Karenna Zemek, Bailey Callahan, Dalaysia Dixon, Aniya Dixon, Garyel Welch

Moline, Illinois

Directors’ Statement:

“Extra Ordinary Girls: Stories from the Underground Railroad is a powerful short film that shows history through the eyes of modern-day teenage girls. Led by a diverse team of young storytellers, this project uncovers the hidden role of girls and women in the Underground Railroad, focusing on the lesser-known history of Geneseo, Illinois.

Through immersive museum visits, historical research, and compelling narration, the film intertwines past and present, showing how ordinary girls—then and now—shape history in extraordinary ways.”

Quotes From Reviewers:

“Extra Ordinary Girls is a well-crafted film that effectively captures the locale, historical events, and key figures that shaped a movement, the underground railroad, with a lasting impact on the Geneseo community. More importantly, it situates the city within the broader national movement, adding depth and context. The graphics, voiceover, and music are all well-executed, enhancing the storytelling.”

“Great job creating your own footage and going to the historical house instead of just adding photos of it. It made the information a lot more interesting while watching the group of girls explore the space.”