Program 3: 'Raise the Roof - Building Tenant Power In Syracuse' - Q&A

Raise the Roof: Building Tenant Power In Syracuse - Tenant unions have sprouted up in cities around the country. This documentary brings viewers inside the movement for housing justice. It tells the story of tenant organizing in Syracuse, a city with one of the highest rates of poverty in the nation and an enduring housing crisis characterized by historic rent increases and widespread housing neglect and disrepair. This film brings viewers into tenants' homes to witness the consequences of slumlord's negligence. It also gives viewers a rare look into the workings of the tenant union, documenting what tenant unions do and the processes whereby tenant power is forged. This documentary is a must-see for all who believe that housing is a human right. (2024, 51m, Director: Gretchen Purser) + Q&A

PRECEDED BY:

Cultivating Change - A short documentary that chronicles the journey of Michael Scannell, the farm manager at Madeleine Point Oyster Farms in Yarmouth. The film explores Michael's experiences in Maine's aquaculture industry, highlighting the challenges he has faced and his dedication to mentoring young Mainers and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds interested in maritime careers. Through Michael's story, Cultivating Change showcases the transformative impact of mentorship and community support in fostering diversity and innovation within Maine's seafood sector. (2025, 6m, Director: Trevor Laffin)
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The Arrivals is a poignant documentary that captures the journey of asylum seekers sent to New York City from the Texas border, starting in August 2022. The film highlights the efforts of three small, underfunded volunteer organizations that provided essential support, including food, clothing, kindness and dignity to traumatized individuals and families seeking safety and security in the United States.

The film focuses on 3 volunteer organizations and their leaders Adama Bah, Ilze Thielmann and Power Malu. The story follows their heroic efforts along with a team of amazing volunteers greeting migrants arriving at the Port Authority bus terminal, progressing eventually to 3 locations in NY where their work continues providing clothing, food, legal services and a sense of security to people seeking a better life. (2025, 36m, Director: Andrea DeGeorge Garbarini)

Host or Publisher Workers Unite Film Festival, Inc.