Meet Melinda Raebyne, a trailblazing Taiwanese-American filmmaker with a global perspective, dedicated to telling stories that illuminate our shared humanity. With a focus on understanding, compassion, and collective action, she crafts narratives that inspire positive change and resilience. Melinda's portfolio boasts award-winning documentaries like "Ellos Gritan Libertad (They Scream Freedom)," recognized at the 2023 Social World Film Festival and the Philadelphia Free Speech Film Festival, and "Asylum," honored with the Right Now Today Humanitarian Award. Her commitment to amplifying local voices with global impact is evident in works like "Stories of Us: Camp Second Chance," premiered at the Seattle International Film Festival, and "For Sale," shedding light on child sex trafficking. Melinda's recent endeavor, "An Intimate Look at COVID-19," offers poignant insights into the pandemic's impact, showcasing her dedication to fostering connection during challenging times.

Beyond her creative pursuits, Melinda is a staunch advocate for independent filmmaking, actively involved with organizations like Meaningful Movies Project and Washington Filmworks. Recognized for her contributions, she is a recipient of the Firelight Media Spark Fund and a graduate of the prestigious WA Filmworks "Above the Line Program." Currently serving as Manager for Meaningful Movies Project, Melinda continues to use film as a tool for building community, fostering dialogue, and promoting social justice on a global scale.

Melinda stopped by The Day With Trae to discuss the upcoming special screening event of the Seattle Black Panthers Fight for Justice & Freedom. The film chronicles the grassroots activism and community organizing efforts spearheaded by the Seattle Black Panthers during the late 1960s and early 1970s. From their initiatives to combat police brutality and provide free breakfast programs for children to their advocacy for racial equality and economic empowerment, the Seattle Panthers left an indelible mark on the city's social and political landscape.