Filmmaker Statement

The title, "This Land Is," encapsulates the film's central theme – the idea that life's trajectory can be profoundly altered in an instant, significantly influencing one's choices. For young Jesse, these choices are unfairly limited, reflecting the struggles of many children in similar situations. The film is an exploration of the difficulties faced by Latino children, a story told from a Latina director's perspective. It brings to light the struggles of children who navigate the overwhelmed and broken systems in place to support them. With an estimated 4.2 million youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in the United States, my hope is that "This Land Is" can stand as a voice for the underserved and misunderstood, offering a glimpse into the life of a young Latino boy in search of family and a permanent place to call home. The film invites its audience to pause and consider the circumstances that lead individuals, including gang members and homeless teens, to their current situations, emphasizing the importance of compassion and empathy over judgment.