Black Panther: Man starts a GoFundMe campaign to help kids in Harlem see film

'How can I get as many children as possible to see this film and see themselves as a superhero or a king or queen?'

There is unique power to be found in representation.

Which is why Marvel's first release of 2018, Black Panther, is set to become one of the most important cultural events of 2018; the chance for black audiences to see a cast of black heroes on screen, in a major Hollywood blockbuster, with the guidance of a black director.

It's no wonder that the film sold more pre-sale tickets in their first 24 hours of availability than any other film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, beating out Captain America: Civil War - even star Lupita Nyong'o failed to get tickets.

Fredrick Joseph believes it's a moment that should especially be experienced by young students (primarily of colour), as an opportunity to witness such a powerful moment in the history of cinematic representation.

He has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help children in Harlem, New York, to see the film, telling CNN: "I knew I wanted to do something for the children, especially of Harlem, because it was a community primarily of colour. I said to myself, how can I get as many children as possible to see this film and see themselves as a superhero or a king or queen?"

"Representation and inclusion are legitimately essential pillars to creating dreams for yourself," he added.

Within 10 days, the campaign has tripled its original goal of $10,000. More than 700 people have donated, with famous names such as Chelsea Clinton, director J.J. Abrams, and ESPN anchor Jemele Hill helping to spread the word.

The money will go toward purchasing tickets and refreshments for children and chaperones, with any remaining donations going to the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem, a community organisation which seeks to provide a safe, positive, and supportive environment for young people.

Black Panther sees Chadwick Boseman as T-Chala, Black Panther, as he returns to Wakanda to take the throne. The film also stars Michael B. Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o, Forest Whitaker, Letitia Wright, Angela Bassett, Danai Gurira, Angela Bassett, and Daniel Kaluuya.

Black Panther hits UK cinemas 12 February.

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