Film: SF Urban Film Fest presents Urban Flourishing and Migrant Lives

Join us for an evening of thought-provoking films and insightful discussion. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with stories that challenge perceptions and inspire action.

This collection of compelling films explores the lived experiences of undocumented individuals and asylum seekers, offering authentic perspectives that challenge mainstream narratives. From the uplifting UndocuJoy, which celebrates the moments of happiness within undocumented communities, to the poignant narrative of Matar, following an asylum seeker navigating the hostile immigration system in the UK, explore the realities of life in Southern border communities with The Golden Cage: Life in the Border Colonias and witness the strength and struggles of the undocumented and trans Latina community in North Carolina in Between Us Women: Undocumented and Trans. Each film offers a unique glimpse into the lives of those affected by immigration policies. 

The SF Urban Film Fest gathers a diverse, engaged audience and uses the power of storytelling to spark discussion and civic engagement around urban issues. We ask what it means to live together and create just and equitable cities. 

We are a POC led interdisciplinary storytelling organization that produces an annual film festival, year-round film-based discussion events, and long-term community storytelling projects to make our cities more healthy, inclusive, and culturally abundant.  

Description of Films: 

• UndocuJoy combats victimizing representations of people who are undocumented by flooding the media with authentic images of happiness. We encourage undocumented Americans to share their authentic moments of joy, and allies are encouraged to spread their message. 3:05 min.
• Matar follows the story of an asylum seeker in England who, when confronted with the hostile immigration system in the UK, is forced to live on the fringes of society and rely on his bike to survive. 23:08 min
• The Golden Cage: Life in the Border Colonias offers a rare insight into the challenges faced by residents of colonias, makeshift communities along the U.S.-Mexico border. These areas, stretching from Arizona through Texas, lack basic infrastructure such as running water, electricity, and public transportation, highlighting the struggles of those living in these neglected communities. 13:24 min. 
• Between Us Women: Undocumented and Trans explores the resilience of the trans, undocumented Latina community in North Carolina amidst the threat of a Trump presidency and restrictive anti-LGBTQ laws in 2017. 12:17 min. 

Panelists:

• Moderator: Ronald Sundstrom, Professor of Philosophy at the University of San Francisco
• Deborah Lee, Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity
• Shauna Sigglekow, Define American
• Lariza Dugan-Cuadra, Executive Director of Carecen SF
• Bryan Martinez, Community Member

Connect:

SF Urban Film Fest - Website | SF Urban Film Fest - Instagram