For this project, the ACLU wanted to ignite outrage around the issue of property confiscation at the border and initially envisioned an explainer video. We guided them toward a first-person documentary storytelling approach. By connecting with a real person and her experience, we can give a face to the statistics and headlines.

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To find the right person for the film, we focused on extensive story sourcing, reaching out to over a hundred individuals, lawyers, and community centers working with immigrants at the border. The challenge was finding people who were not only interested in sharing their stories but also still present in the community. Shoutout to the Haitian Bridge Alliance for ultimiately connecting us with V!

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We had the privilege of spending two days with V, diving into her life and journey to the States. After gathering her story, we spent a few weeks editing it down to really capture what makes her special, while underscoring the important issues the ACLU was advocating to change. Our team took care of the whole production process—scripting, animation, and adding some amazing music and sound design from our favorite collaborators. In the end, the film aims to give V a platform to ensure her voice, and those like her, is heard.