Independent filmmaker Tevin Foster to premiere new documentary ‘Race Vs. Culture’ Exploring Black Unity 

Long Island-based independent filmmaker Tevin Foster is preparing to debut his second feature-length documentary, “Race Vs Culture: The Black Experience.” This thought-provoking film aims to confront division and spark unity within the Black community.

The film’s premiere is scheduled for June 6 at 7:30 p.m. at Bellmore Movies And Showplace. It will be followed by a networking afterparty next door, designed as an early Juneteenth celebration.

“This project is really close to my heart,” Foster said in an interview. “It’s about using storytelling to bring people together, especially in the Black community, where we often see division based on culture, nationality, or background. I want to shift the conversation toward unity and progress.”

Born and raised in Jamaica, Foster moved to the United States at 11 and has since established his life and career on Long Island. A graduate of Farmingdale State College, Foster now works at his alma mater as the Associate Director of Digital Content, while also running his own creative business, Hazy Sun Productions, based in Nesconset, N.Y.

His first documentary, Long Island Forgotten Heroes (2022), focused on the plight of homeless veterans and was broadcast across the region. That film was a collaboration with the nonprofit Barbara Foxtrot, led by Matthew Simone and Jade Pinto. “I learned so much through that project, especially how many veterans fall through the cracks after serving their country,” Foster said.

With “Race Vs Culture,” Foster takes on a different but equally important issue — internal division within the Black community. “I saw a lot of negative discourse online — arguments over culture, heritage, accents, skin tone,” Foster said. “It’s something I’ve experienced growing up, too. And I just felt like, especially in today’s climate, we should be focusing on unity.”

The film features interviews and testimonials from individuals across diverse Black identities, including those from the Caribbean, Africa, and African American backgrounds. The stories explore varied perspectives on race, identity, and culture, with some expressing hope for unity and others expressing doubt.

“Everyone had a voice in this,” Foster said. “It’s not just my opinion. It’s a collection of thoughts and feelings from people who all identify as Black, but come from very different walks of life.”

“Race Vs. Culture” was entirely self-funded. “I did it paycheck to paycheck,” Foster said. “I couldn’t wait for grants or sponsorships — I just knew I had to get it done.”

Foster said his long-term goal is to take the film to schools, youth organizations, and colleges, especially during Black History Month and Juneteenth, to engage the younger generation in meaningful dialogue about identity, unity, and community.

Though this is only his second feature film, Foster has worked on many short films and helped others with their productions. He said he’s excited to explore more storytelling formats in the future, including scripted narratives.

“I don’t want to box myself in. I love documentaries, but I might explore short fiction next, and eventually move on to full-length narrative films,” he said.

Foster hopes people show up, watch, and reflect. “Come to the screening. Share the message. If you’re part of an organization or school that wants to collaborate, reach out. Let’s start a conversation that brings us closer together,” he said.

To stay updated on his work, Foster encourages people to follow him on Instagram at @taumorfilms and his production company’s website, hazysunproduction.com. The film also has its dedicated page at @racevculture.film, where updates on future screenings and events will be posted.