Watch United We Dream

United We Dream is a 2018 documentary film directed by Cristina Ibarra and co-directed by Alex Rivera. The film tells the story of the national immigrant youth-led organization of the same name, which was founded in 2008 by a group of undocumented immigrant youth and their supporters in the United States. The organization is composed of young people who were brought to the US as children, known as Dreamers, and they advocate for the rights of undocumented immigrants and fight for their inclusion in American society.

The film provides an intimate look at the lives of several Dreamers and how their experiences have propelled them to take action and fight for justice. Through interviews, personal accounts, and archival footage, the filmmakers tell the story of the Dreamers and their fight against the deportation of undocumented immigrants. The documentary also highlights the role of technology and social media in organizing and raising awareness for their cause.

The film opens with footage of young Dreamers protesting on the steps of the Capitol building in Washington D.C. and chanting, "We are here to stay!" This sets the tone for the film, which is both inspiring and heartbreaking. The filmmakers chronicle the struggles and triumphs of United We Dream and the young people they represent, exploring the impact of Trump's anti-immigrant policies on the lives of Dreamers and their families.

The film also delves into the complex politics surrounding immigration in the United States, including the debate over the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. DACA was established in 2012 by President Barack Obama to provide temporary protection from deportation and work permits to Dreamers who met certain criteria. However, President Trump rescinded the program in 2017, throwing the lives of nearly 700,000 Dreamers into chaos.

United We Dream explores the personal stories of several Dreamers whose lives were affected by the program's termination. These young people share their fears and anxieties about being deported to countries they have never known, losing the ability to work, and being separated from their families. The film also shows how DACA recipients and their allies fought back against the Trump administration's decision through protests, rallies, and legal challenges.

Throughout the film, the Dreamers' resilience and determination shine through. They refuse to be silenced or marginalized, and instead, they use their voices and platforms to fight for their rights and the rights of all undocumented immigrants. The filmmakers also capture the camaraderie and solidarity within the organization, which serves as a support system for Dreamers who often feel alone and helpless in the face of political oppression.

One of the most powerful aspects of United We Dream is its portrayal of the human cost of immigration policies. The film shows how these policies affect real people with families, jobs, and aspirations. It also highlights the fact that Dreamers are American in every way except for their immigration status. They grew up in the United States, attended American schools, and consider themselves part of American society. Yet, they are denied the basic rights and protections afforded to citizens and legal residents.

United We Dream is a compelling and necessary documentary that sheds light on one of the most pressing social justice issues of our time. The film humanizes the struggles of undocumented immigrants and provides a platform for their voices to be heard. It also sends a powerful message about the importance of fighting for justice and standing up against oppression, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Ultimately, the film is a testament to the power of young people to effect change and make a difference in the world.