According to Variety, the first ever SignLight International Film Festival will be held in Hollywood’s Pacific Design Center from the 16th to the 20th of April. The event will feature the works of deaf filmmakers and creatives from all across the globe. The festival will screen films, such as Silent Rhythm, Not Another Deaf Story, Speak in a Whisper, and Being Michelle.

Behind the event is actor, director, and producer CJ Jones, who says, “Too often, hearing people misappropriate the stories and roles of people who are Deaf, only to seek out their assistance to help them create a facsimile of their lives. Authentic representation requires authentic participation behind as well as in front of the camera. Our festival offers the industry a ‘how-to manual’ that illustrates models of successful Deaf/hearing creative collaborations, best practices, innovative Deaf/hearing communications solutions and a contact roster of the best Deaf talent in the world.”

Aside from the festival’s film screenings, there will also be activities, exhibition booths, panels, and pitch sessions as well as live performances from deaf performers, such as ASL (American Sign Language) hip hop artist Matt Maxey also known as Deafinitely Dope.

For more information on the SignLight International Film Festival, check out their website here.