‘Racist Trees’ Documentary Returns to Palm Springs During Black History Month
PALM SPRINGS — “Racist Trees,” the documentary examining the controversy over a wall of tamarisk trees that separated a predominantly Black neighborhood in Palm Springs from the rest of the city, will be screened during Black History Month at the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
The Feb. 16 showing of the film, followed by a panel discussion, is sponsored by the Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation and the Palm Springs Black History Committee. Proceeds will benefit the two non-profit organizations and the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
The screening is set for Sunday, Feb. 16, 3 p.m. at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs.
“Racist Trees” debuted at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in 2023. Based on reporting initiated by The Desert Sun newspaper in 2017, the documentary focuses on the community strife surrounding a row of tall, dense tamarisk trees that left residents of the Crossley Tract subdivision feeling isolated in their own city. The trees concealed their homes from the neighboring Tahquitz Creek Golf Course and blocked their views of Palm Springs’ iconic San Jacinto Mountains. For years, residents viewed the trees as a racist symbol of segregation and demanded that they be removed.
“In addition to digging deep into Palm Springs history, the film recognizes the power of local journalism to bring important stories to light, including stories like this one with real human consequences,” said Cary Brazeman, a Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation board member. “We’ve been working to bring the film back to Palm Springs to spotlight local journalism’s critical contributions to our community.”
The film’s producers, residents of the Crossley neighborhood, and the editor of The Desert Sun will participate in a panel discussion and audience Q&A after the screening.
To purchase tickets ($27.37 per person) go to www.cvjf.org.
Image Sources
- “Racist Trees”: Sara Newens