
The Right Kinda Negro
2024, Documentary
Release Year: 2021
Country: USA
Director: Jameelah Houston
Editor: Kylie Zieminski
The Right Kinda Negro, is a social and cultural documentary that examines the pressures placed on Black individuals to conform to societal expectations of acceptability. By blending historical context, personal narratives, and expert insights, the film unpacks the layers of respectability politics, colorism, and identity performance. It challenges stereotypes while celebrating the richness and diversity of Black identity.
The documentary’s central participants include cultural historians, sociologists, activists, and everyday individuals who share their experiences navigating the complexities of identity. From a young professional facing microaggressions in the workplace to an elder reflecting on the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement, their stories form a tapestry of resilience and self-discovery.
Trailer
GALLERY

About the directors
Jameelah Houston is a filmmaker, storyteller, and cultural advocate from the South Side of Chicago. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Independent Film Digital Imaging at Governors State University, where she is honing her craft in directing and visual storytelling.
Houston made her directorial debut with “Birthday Jay” (2024), a short film that celebrates Black joy and community. She served as Assistant Director on “Life in My Eyes” (2024), which is set to screen at the Black Harvest Film Festival. Her work is deeply rooted in exploring identity, resilience, and the intersections of race, culture, and individuality.
