‘Our Blues Make Us Gold’ Honors North Carolina A&T Legacy, Premieres at MVAAFF [TRAILER]

The legacy of the nation’s largest historically Black college and university took center stage at the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF) with the recent premiere of Our Blues Make Us Gold.

Directed and produced by husband-and-wife team Ashley Shanté Deese and Brandon Gerard Deese of A2B Entertainment, the soul-stirring documentary celebrates the history, impact, and cultural influence of North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, North Carolina. The film is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Xumo Play.

The project was sparked when Ashley, then a television writer, found herself defending the legitimacy of HBCUs in a writers’ room. The moment inspired the couple to create a film that would challenge misconceptions and honor the transformative role Black colleges play in shaping leaders.

Our Blues Make Us Gold takes viewers on an intimate journey through A&T’s past and present — from the bravery of astronaut Ronald E. McNair and the Greensboro Four, to the achievements of modern-day leaders in agriculture, technology, and activism. Featuring voices like Vice President Kamala Harris, David Banner, and Rev. Al Sharpton, the documentary weaves together personal narratives and historic milestones that speak to Black excellence and resilience.

The MVAAFF screening drew a packed audience of filmmakers, educators, and proud Aggies, followed by a Color of Conversation Q&A with the Deeses, Carl S. McNair, and civil rights activist Tylik McMillan, moderated by Dr. Irish Spencer. The discussion explored the film’s themes of cultural legacy, academic achievement, and community empowerment.

With its emotional depth and historical insight, Our Blues Make Us Gold stands as both an educational resource and a celebration of a community whose impact continues to shape the world.