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Short-Form Documentaries – Program 1

In this program


Citizen: The Jilmar Ramos Gomez Story

Directed by Jose Guadalupe Jimenez Jr.

Exploring the near deportation of Grand Rapids-born U.S. citizen, Marine, and combat veteran Jilmar Ramos Gomez, this documentary scrutinizes the system that nearly expelled him, the collaboration between local law enforcement and I.C.E., and raises critical questions about who gets to define what it means to be American. Reflecting on the treatment of Veterans, both of color and otherwise, it serves as a powerful reminder that change begins at the local level—even when it feels impossible in Washington.

Qotzuñi: People of the Lake / Qotzuñi: Hombres del Lago

Directed by Gastón Zilberman, Michael Salama

In 2016, Lake Poopó, home to the Uru-Murato indigenous communities and the second largest lake in Bolivia, dried up entirely due to diversion of its headwaters and climate change-related drought. Through interviews with community members, the film explores the drought’s impact on Uru livelihoods and culture, and their methods of community adaptation.

Words to Live by

Directed by Richard E. Haywood

A sign language interpreter tries to heal from childhood trauma through expanding idiomatic expression and minority representation in the deaf community.

First It Was My Dream

Directed by Shaena Golden

In the ring, Mexican boxer Andy Dominguez fights for glory—but outside of it, he battles for something even greater: his identity and belonging. This documentary follows Andy’s gripping journey as he chases a shot at the world title, all while navigating the challenges of undocumented status in America.

Dates & Times

Regal Union Square

September 17, 2025
4:45 pm