The Latin American, Caribbean, and Iberian Studies (LACIS) program, in partnership with the Mexican consulate in Milwaukee, presented a free public film screening of the poignant documentary Home is Somewhere Else. Held in the Marquee Theatre at Union South, the event was followed by another special screening and workshop for over 150 middle and high school students the next day.
The animated documentary featured three personal stories, narrated by the individuals themselves, and advocated for a more just and equitable immigration system. Through captivating animation and voice-over narration, the film explored the challenges and triumphs of these young people as they navigate their lives in the United States.
After the screenings, film director Jorge Villalobos participated in a Q&A session with the audience. This gave students and other attendees an opportunity to dive deeper into the film’s themes and ask questions directly to the filmmaker.
Following the Q&A session, students enjoyed a participatory activity led by Villalobos and a pizza lunch. Wesley Dominguez Delgado, bilingual student & family engagement specialist at Kromrey Middle School, said that students were positively impacted by both the film and engaging activities.
“The children have so many different ways to show what they learned about the message of the film. The students participated in a drawing workshop after they watched the film and even Jorge Villabolos was surprised to see the deep analysis students took away from the film,” Dominguez Delgado said. “It provided a space for students to connect with their own challenges and stories, and see others’ challenges and empathize with them.”
LACIS Faculty Director Sara McKinnon agreed, noting that these events are integral to helping Latine students in Wisconsin explore themes relevant to their lives.
“Events like this help Latine students know they belong at U.S. colleges and universities,” said McKinnon. “LACIS was thrilled to organize the event, and we look forward to many other opportunities to connect Wisconsin and Latin America through youth programming.”
LACIS is grateful to partner with the Mexican Consulate in Milwaukee to bring this important film to the Madison community. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both institutions to promoting cultural understanding and social justice.
Learn more about LACIS and their upcoming programming by visiting their website or social media pages!
Story by Kayla Daum