La Americana

About the Project

La Americana is an intimate documentary following an undocumented immigrant's journey from Bolivia to New York City and back, as she struggles to save the life of her ailing daughter. Her unforgettable story is woven into the current immigration crisis in the United States, putting a human face on this timely and controversial issue.

Through interviews, reenactments and a sweeping cinema-verite narrative, La Americana takes its viewers on an international journey following the personal and political tragedy faced by one undocumented immigrant in New York City. The story begins several years ago, in the poorest country of South America.

The La Americana Outreach Campaign is timed to capitalize on the return of immigration as a major national political issue. As depicted in the film, in both 2006 and 2007, immigration exploded as one of the most important issues in the media, as the nation was came to the brink of undertaking a drastic change of our current system. While presidential campaigning has pushed the issue lower on the agenda, the new President and Congress will undoubtedly take the issue up again, and the nation’s progressive policy advocates and community activists must be prepared to mobilize and make their voices heard.

The Fledgling Fund Impact

The Fledgling Fund is pleased to provide financial support to the La Americana Outreach Campaign.  With a series of targeted screenings in key communities, coupled with a screening kit and action guide, as well as an innovative web 2.0 outreach strategy, we believe La Americana can inspire audiences to create change, while bolstering and networking organizations working on the ground every day.