The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) Multicultural Affairs organization held a viewing for an intimate documentary “Out of Omaha” on Thursday. “Out of Omaha” tells the story of twin brothers, Darcell and Darrell Trotter, growing up in North Omaha and the obstacles they faced as young black men.
Darcell Trotter attended the showing to partake in a panel for students to ask questions about the film. Darcell has had people from all around the world contact him to make sure he knows how much hope his story gives them, especially ones in Omaha.
UNO student Ashaud Washington attended the viewing and said, “He [Darcell Trotter] went through it, but I’m living it right now. Just realizing there’s more to life and that it’s not just the streets, or the gangs. That it can be different.”
Although many have found inspiration from the Trotter brothers’ life, watching your own turmoil on screen can be difficult.
Darcell said, “I walked out on it like a couple times. I was like yo, I can’t do this, I can’t watch this, I’m stressed out over this. Life isn’t where it was at the time. It was super stressful, I cried.”
After attempting to watch the film a few times, Darcell was able to finish the film and got to see how far he had come.
Darcell said, “Most kids that grow up in North Omaha the percentage of them who have been in gangs is very high and I was one of those kids.”
The producer for “Out of Omaha” Ryan Johnston emphasizes the challenges that inner city children experience.
Johnston said, “There are barriers and obstacles presented to kids like Darcell that just aren’t presented to other kids in Omaha.”
Even though Darcell and Darrell faced many hardships in Omaha, they were able to make it out. Both brothers now have their own families and own an appliance store together.
