Earlier this year, President Barack Obama spoke at South by Southwest where he discussed civic engagement and asked many people across the country to help tackle our most difficult challenges. It seems as if President Obama really enjoyed himself that he wants to create his own festival based off of South by Southwest by creating South by South Lawn where he will bring together creators, organizers, and innovators. This festival will coordinate with the American Film Institute (AFI) and the President’s Committee on Arts and Humanities (PCAH). The festival will be comprised of three parts.
INTERACTIVE: Panel discussions throughout the day will explore topics like how to make change stick with organizers who are having an impact, as well as a discussion with influencers who are using their platforms to bring about positive change. Interactive booths will encourage attendees to engage with and learn about new technologies and innovations.
FILM: The film portion features the 3rd Annual White House Student Film Festival in association with its founding partner, the American Film Institute. Students in grades K-12 submitted more than 700 short films round this year’s theme, The World I Want to Live In. The submissions are inspiring and we’re excited to share official selections and honor young filmmakers as part of this event.
MUSIC: Musical performances will include well-known and emerging artists who are using their music to inspire audiences.
To attend, you first have to be nominated (or nominate yourself) through a form on the White House website.