From East LA to Cannes. Wow. Attending the Cannes Film Festival has always been a life-long goal. When I set out to make the short film, EL PAISA, I wanted to speak to queer Latine immigrant identity in southern California--to celebrate our brilliant nuances and diverse communities, but now it dawns on me: I get to take this message of empowerment to one of the most sophisticated film audiences in the world! Again, wow.

When I got the call that EL PAISA had been selected to screen at the American Pavilion at Cannes, I was resigned to the idea that I could never afford to attend. I'm still wrapping up my last film and, frankly, the "starving artist" situation is real. But just in the past few days I've been so deeply encouraged by friends and colleagues urging me to go that I at least need to try to make this life-long goal a reality.

Perhaps you can lend me your support?

Please consider making a contribution to help me cover travel expenses to present our film, EL PAISA, at Cannes and carry the immigrant latino torch for all of us.

Mil gracias!