American Sanctuary is a documentary film that asks a critical question: Can the residents of a small American city turn a belief in morality and justice into a force that’s able to fend off an attack from a massively powerful federal government determined to crush their resistance? What motivates an individual to step out of their comfort zone to support someone they’ve never met and have very little in common with?

 

Currently in production, the film explores the concept of sanctuary through the lives of citizens and their immigrant neighbors – each with a unique, personal understanding of sanctuary. These include a young college graduate, having grown up with the fear of ICE agents at his undocumented family’s front door, who is now able to challenge deportations as a newly minted immigration attorney. A young Venezuelan/American activist accompanying asylum seekers to their mandatory ICE check-ins and deportation hearings. The children of immigrants trying to protect and support their family and community. Committed volunteers providing advice on constitutional rights to migrants entering the ICE field office. Senior citizens actively protesting brutal ICE deportations.

 

As we continue to film, we’ll be documenting congregations of several faith traditions actively helping refugee families and asylum seekers desperate for sanctuary from deportation. Pro bono lawyers mobilized in immigrant communities. Governmental leaders attempting to create a stronger legal sanctuary within the city. Average citizens documenting brutal ICE raids and detentions on smart phones. Immigrant artists creating a new home for their hope of an American Dream. Inflatable frogs taunting the deportation machine.

 

Will Portland’s stubborn and at times unconventional resistance to this assault be successful? And what will the impact be on the women and men who’ve suddenly found themselves engaged in this unexpected battle?