About the Initiative

Starting in 2000 with early cuts of Kartemquin Films’ landmark series The New Americans, and continuing through films like Who is Dayani Cristal?, Active Voice led the charge on using films about immigration to engage people “beyond the choir,” and pave the way for more harmonious communities. Through national and local partnerships, public screenings, cultural events, and technical assistance for grassroots groups, our Global Lives Initiative sparked long-lasting relationships in demographically changing communities, energized the work of think tanks and advocacy groups, and catalyzed cross-sector problem solving in support of immigrants nationwide.