Award-winning Film About Barriers and Dreams of Undocumented Youth to be Screened at DCC
September 15, 2017 – In light of the recent national conversation about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) federal policy, a 21-minute documentary called “DREAMers Among US” will be shown in Dutchess Community College’s James and Betty Hall Theatre on Sept. 22 at noon. The screening is free and open to the public and will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A session.
Members of the Youth Arts Group of Rural & Migrant Ministry created the film, along with filmmakers Ilene Cutler and Roberto Romano, after years of fighting for the New York DREAM Act, which would permit otherwise eligible undocumented immigrants to apply for the state’s Tuition Assistance Program. The piece captures the need for reforms that will enable all young people in New York state to pursue higher education.
“DREAMers Among US” was named the Best Short Film for 2015 by the Greater Washington Immigration Film Fest and was an official selection of the 2015 Hudson Valley International Film Festival. The screening is part of DCC’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
DCC faculty member Paula Lockshon co-produced the documentary, and DCC graduate Gabriela Quintanilla is featured in the film. The panel consists of Laura Garcia, DCC Alum, DACA recipient and racial justice program manager for YWCA Orange County; Ivette Pineda, John Jay College student and one of the filmmakers; Kim Fernandez, DCC student and one of the filmmakers; and Ignacio Acevedo, lead organizer of community group Nobody Leaves Mid-Hudson and subject in the film.
