Cuzin Sista is an intimate and heartwarming story of one Gullah woman’s journey through life, the struggles she endures and the many lives she touches along the way. Set in Charleston, South Carolina, this documentary examines the life and times of Louise Washington. A descendent of West Africans who marooned on the coasts of South Carolina (better known as the Gullah Islands), her story echoes the strength and determination of her ancestors of whom the Geechee/Gullah culture was derived from.

Born and raised in Charleston, her story is told through the eyes of her family, friends and the community where she is affectionately known as Cuzin Sista. Although she is an only child, she had numerous cousins and bore five generations of over eighty descendents. Through the family's story we are given a timeline of African American history from slavery to present date and the many changes that have occurred throughout Charleston. Taking an especially close look at gentrification, assimilation and integration within the Charleston community and how Cuzin Sista triumphantly journeyed through it all.

Director: Layla Mashavu Sewell

Cuzin Sista Home: www.cuzinsista.com

Back to Film

Back to Schedule