California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) hosted the premiere of “Immigration: America’s Bittersweet Dream” on May 5, a new documentary exploring the complex history of immigration in the United States and in Kern County.

The film took several years to produce by CSUB’s Center for Social Justice and was created by filmmaker Miguel Orozco. Whose previous documentary won a Hollywood International Independent Documentary Award in 2018. 

“This is a project rooted in truth, in humanity, and in the voices that are often unheard,” Orozco said. “We hope this film helps drive conversation and action.”

The film was shown to a crowd of students, faculty, and community leaders as a special first look screening. CSUB President Vernon Harper announced that the final version of the film will be shown in September or October, with updates based on audience feedback. The fall event will be open to the public and promoted across campus.

“This is a really important night,” said Harper. “We are here to shine a light on a story that affects so many families, communities, and futures.”

The film included moments from history and connects them to today’s issues like immigration, civil rights, and an upcoming Supreme Court decision on birthright citizenship.

Dr. Mark Martinez, Director of the Center for Social Justice and a political science professor at CSUB said that the film’s message is rooted in real struggles and real lives.

“This is not just about policy,” Martinez said. “It’s about power who has it, who abuses it, and who gets left behind. This film forces us to confront that.”

Harper said even though it started as a film about hate, it became a story about hope and how young people today can help make things better.

“It became a story of hope and love,” he said. “And I believe our students are the key to finding real solutions,” Harper said. 

The film premiere was co-sponsored by: CSUB Center for Social Justice, Building Healthy Communities Kern, Immigration Justice Collaborative, Office of the Provost, Kegley Institute of Ethics, and College of Social Sciences and Education. 

The documentary received a standing ovation at the end of the screening by the audience.

Audience members in a standing ovation following the screening of Immigration: America’s Bittersweet Dream at CSUB on May 5.