Doc World

Unsettled: Seeking Refuge in America

By Tom Shepard and Jen Gilomen

In their home countries, Subhi, Cheyenne, Mari and Junior were targets of death threats, harassment and discrimination because of who they are and who they love. These four are among the many LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers who have fled persecution to resettle in the U.S. But as leadership in America continues to demonize immigrants and restrict the flow of refugees into the U.S., UNSETTLED: SEEKING REFUGE IN AMERICA humanizes a group of people who are desperately trying to find a safe place to call home.

The film, which largely takes place in the San Francisco Bay Area, also asks whether U.S. cities like those in Northern California are a practical location for resettlement given the economic challenges (cost of living, scarcity of affordable housing) they present. What are the ultimate costs immigrants pay for seeking refuge in America?