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Bradford is a diverse, multi-faith city, with a history of peace activism and grassroots resistance. Its religious diversity has inspired people and movements whose faith has motivated them for works of peacebuilding. Through documenting the memories of faith-based activists in Bradford, The Branches Are Hope; The Roots Are Memory explores the links between Bradford’s religious diversity, peace heritage, and grassroots activism; it is an audio-visual portrait of a unique aspect of Bradford’s culture.

Through the memories of Bradford’s peace activists, filmmaker Sema Basharan explores her own relationship with her home city in a personal reflection inspired by the oral history recordings. This inter-faith film aims to document, interpret and share the often-overlooked voices of peace in the city, and explore their place in Bradford’s unique culture and collective memory.

Festival screenings

World Premiere: Sunday 13 June 2021, Sheffield DocFest *NOMINEE – Short Film Award

Wednesday 29 September 2021, Bolton International Film Festival

Saturday 6 November 2021, Aesthetica Short Film Festival

Sunday 14 November 2021, Leeds International Film Festival *WINNER – Yorkshire Short Film Award

Interview excerpts:

Hear more excerpts from some of Bradford’s peace activists sharing their thoughts on racial justice, the arms trade and climate change, and how they’ve been involved on local and political levels.

Uzma:

David:

Susan: