Join us for an intimate, unforgettable night celebrating film, folx, and food while supporting an essential element of Chicago's creative ecosystem: Mezcla Media Collective. Amidst a time when Black and brown voices are actively being erased, defunded, and censored, we invite our community to boldly come together to set our own tables - to support our local storytellers who utilize the revolutionary healing power of film when it is needed most.

This special gathering features esteemed film and community champion Lilly Wachowski — Chicago-based visionary writer-director-producer of The Matrix, Bound, Cloud Atlas, and Work In Progress, and more — in a setting as inspired as her work. Lilly will engage in a conversation with McKenzie Chinn, acclaimed writer, actor, filmmaker, and producer of the award-winning feature Olympia. A powerful voice in independent film, McKenzie brings depth and brilliance to this one-of-a-kind exchange. This will be live-streamed by our friends over at Mainstream Media.

The night includes a custom-set dinner menu prepared by acclaimed Chef Zoe Schor, James Beard Award semifinalist and Chopped champion, known for her bold, inventive flavors. Hosted at Villanelle, Chicago’s stunning women and queer-owned event space, the evening promises rich conversation, exquisite food, and meaningful connection.

In addition to dinner, the evening will feature music from a local DJ, Audio Jack, a silent auction featuring exciting prizes, and a private screening showcase of stunning, Chicago-centric films created by Mezcla Media Collective members.

This is a COVID-safe(r) event, which means all guests will be asked to mask when not eating or drinking. Air purifiers will be provided by Clean Air Club Club Chicago, with masks provided at the door as well.

All proceeds from this event will fund Mezcla Media Collective's mentorship programs, fellowships, and professional development for emerging storytellers.

ABOUT MEZCLA

Mezcla Media Collective is a Chicago-based film organization dedicated to providing resources and advocating for equity for over 750 BIPOC women and non-binary filmmakers. Mezcla exists solely to uplift and support filmmakers in the Midwest through educational workshops, networking and developing a hyperlocal community.

Funding for Mezcla Media Collective in 2025 is provided by: The Field Foundation, Illinois Arts Council Agency, The Crossroad Fund, and Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Mezcla Media Collective Presents: Setting Our Own Table