"Black In Asheville"
A 2023 documentary film by Todd Gragg
TITLE: Black In Asheville – a 2023 documentary film
AUTHOR: Todd Gragg
SOURCE: Branding System PRO
PERMISSION to post granted by Todd Gragg.
Todd Gragg is a native of Asheville, North Carolina. He is a graduate of Asheville High School and a 1993 graduate of UNC Asheville. He grew up in the close-knit community of Shiloh where he spent much of his youth playing sports at the Shiloh Center. From a young age, Todd’s parents instilled in him the importance of looking out for his neighbors, particularly the elderly, by mowing their lawns and ensuring they had enough to eat. These experiences left a lasting impression on him and instilled a strong sense of community that he carries with him to this day.
Todd started his marketing agency Branding System PRO in 2008. Branding System PRO is a versatile multimedia agency with expertise in filmmaking, photography, and web design. At the heart of Branding System PRO’s mission lies a passion for aiding clients in conveying their narratives through the medium of film. Film serves as a powerful tool to enhance a brand through compelling storytelling.
Todd’s interest in history led him to pursue a passion project called “Black In Asheville,” a film documentary that highlights Asheville’s often-overlooked Black history. From the Antebellum Period to the Postbellum Period of Reconstruction, Jim Crow and Black Code Laws, the film accurately portrays what life was like for Black people in Asheville. Todd believes that it is important to tell these stories that history has intentionally omitted so that future generations can be aware of the significant contributions made by Black people throughout history.
Todd’s future plans involve continuing to work on passion projects that will have a positive impact on the lives of people. He firmly believes in the power of community and is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need to succeed.
Visit Black InAsheville to watch a brief trailer for the documentary, and to learn about future screenings.