The fabulous Erika Alexander was born in Winslow, AZ and lived in Flagstaff, AZ until she was 11. Erika starred in Living Single as Maxine Shaw, Attorney at Law, created by the incredible Yvette Lee Bowser. This show, which debuted in 1993, and her character, changed lives. I witnessed this firsthand during my experience filming Erika. People lined up to hug her, many shedding tears. Google the Maxine Shaw Effect to learn more!
Erika came to Flagstaff and Winslow with her family and close friends to celebrate the places that heavily influenced her into the incredible person she is today. Not only is she an actor, but she is an activist, writer, director, and so much more.
This film is an heirloom project for Erika and her family as they were celebrated and welcomed at many events around the city. For three days, I followed their family and documented their visit. In this film, you’ll see a Q&A with NAU students after the showing of her film “The Big Payback”, the unveiling of the Winslow Hall of Fame, the introduction of Erika by former mayor of Flagstaff Coral Evans for a celebration at the Flagstaff Mall, meeting current mayor Becky Daggett, the unveiling of Erika Alexander Way with Winslow Mayor Roberta Cano, Erika’s brother John singing his heart out to Winslow, their incredible mother Sammie expressing gratitude, and Erika singing the Flagstaff Mall jingle that she has never forgotten. Erika’s mother Sammie did incredible work for children’s literacy in Flagstaff and was honored at a tea party at the Murdoch Center.
It was such a joy to meet and spend time with Erika, Yvette Lee Bowser, Erika’s mother Sammie Alexander, and her family, and friends,
