The Background
Echoes of a Dream: MLK’s Legacy in Richmond, Virginia is a short-form historical feature that explores a lesser-known but deeply significant chapter in the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While much of the public memory of Dr. King is shaped by his national speeches and marches, Richmond served as a powerful and foundational backdrop to his early organizing, relationships, and vision. From his first visit in 1953 to speak at Virginia Union University to the many sermons, rallies, and civil rights collaborations that followed, Richmond was more than a stop — it was soil. The city’s legacy holds not just echoes of his voice, but proof of the grassroots strategies that helped build a movement. Through interviews, archival visuals, and narration, this film brings those moments into sharp focus for a new generation.
Run time: 9min 15sec
Project Type
Screenplay Writing
Film Production
Interviews
The Ask
Before production began, we asked ourselves one central question: How did the dream begin? What about the places where he started building that vision? Richmond, Virginia, is one of those places. It’s where he spoke, strategized, prayed, and organized with fellow leaders who would become the backbone of the Civil Rights Movement. It’s also one of the last places he was scheduled to return to before his assassination. What is the story there? That’s the question that guided our work. This film is our answer, a tribute to Richmond’s place in the movement, and a deeper look at the quiet power of beginnings.
The Teaser
The Trailer
Director's Post Roll Q&A
Listen to the Director Tyrone Nelson, Jr. as he takes you behind the lens of Echoes of a Dream: MLK's Impact in Richmond, Virginia
Recognized on the Global Stage
We are proud to share that Echoes of a Dream: MLK’s Legacy in Richmond, Virginia has been officially selected by the Richmond International Film Festival, one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the Mid-Atlantic. Honored among a global lineup of groundbreaking films, our work was recognized not only for its historical depth, but for its bold storytelling and cultural relevance. This recognition places Richmond’s often overlooked role in Dr. King’s journey on the international stage and affirms the power of centering local history in a global conversation. It’s more than a laurel — it’s a milestone for our team and for the communities whose stories we tell.
OUR TEAM
Director: Tyrone Nelson, Jr.
Written By: Bersabeh Kemaw
Edited By: D. Moses Carter III & Tyrone Nelson Jr.
Lead Supervisor: Ronald Booker Jr.
Asst. Editor: Nya Battle
Get To Know The Team
Listen to the team as we take you behind the lens of "Echoes of a Dream: MLK's Impact in Richmond, Virginia" discussing the importance of the film and our inspiration for making it.
Film Posters
Press Content
See Below
PREMIERING
September 24th, 2025
SCREENING AT BOW TIE CINEMAS MOVIELAND AT BOULEVARD SQUARE