Building the American Dream

By Chelsea Hernandez. In Association with Latino Public Broadcasting.

Across Texas an unstoppable construction boom drives urban sprawl and luxury high-rises. Its dirty secret: abuse of immigrant labor.

BUILDING THE AMERICAN DREAM captures a turning point as a movement forms to fight widespread construction industry injustices. Grieving their son, a Mexican family campaigns for a life-and-death safety ordinance. A Salvadorian electrician couple owed thousands in back pay fights for their children’s future. A bereaved son battles to protect others from his family’s preventable tragedy. A story of courage, resilience and community, the film reveals shocking truths about the hardworking immigrants who build the American Dream, of which they are excluded.

Watch BUILDING THE AMERICAN DREAM and a whole collection of films as part of Hispanic Heritage Month. Join the conversation with us on social media using the hashtag #WeAreLatinX/#SomosLatinX. And engage with family & friends using our downloadable Social Activity Toolkit.