Introduction by Richardson Chery and Martine Harris, Co-Founders of Haitian Spotlight

Based on writer-director Gessica Généus’s own experiences coming of age in Haiti, the film follows the life of Freda (Néhémie Bastien) with her siblings and mother, Jeanette (Fabiola Remy), in Port-au-Prince as they get by with their small corner store. Taking place in 2018, as the country is burdened with civil unrest due to the enduring consequences of colonization, Freda’s family looks for options to escape, whereas Freda herself is more reluctant due to her love for and loyalty to Haiti. The film offers a rare female perspective of the country, highlighting themes such as generational trauma and colorism.