SYNOPSIS
Sparked by backlash to a neo-Nazi rally and a stream of strict anti-immigrant laws passing in Arizona, a group of activists organize to build Phoenix Allies for Community Health, a unique free clinic serving undocumented immigrants. The film follows their journey, delves into the heart and history of the clinic, and chronicles the poignant stories of undocumented patients as well as their courage and resilience. HEALTH UNDOCUMENTED captures the inspirational birth of a local grassroots movement, full of beautiful human portraits including those of doctors, nurses, and activists who would stop at nothing to make a difference.
PRODUCER & DIRECTOR
JUAN FREITEZ
Juan Freitez is an internationally acclaimed visual storyteller, video journalist and filmmaker. His work has been featured by national and international outlets such as NBC News, National Public Radio (NPR), Public Radio International (PRI), The American Public Health Association, The National Journal, Netroots Nation, and The Huffington Post. He founded Community Grassroots Media - a full service video production company - to bring to light the stories of mission-driven organizations, capturing their essence and amplifying their impact. His first feature-length documentary, HEALTH UNDOCUMENTED (SALUD SIN PAPELES), awarded Freitez several international accolades and screened at national and international film festivals and impact conferences. The film has been translated into multiple languages including Spanish, French, Hindi and Malay. It has also been acquired by many libraries and universities for incorporation into their curricula. Freitez has been hosted as a guest speaker by renowned universities, including Stanford, NYU, Georgetown, and UCSD to present his work and lead discussions about the communities and topics documented in his films. He is currently based in Ann Arbor, Michigan where he remains dedicated to fostering his various local and cultural communities. Outside of running his production company, Freitez enjoys being enveloped by the hugs and giggles of his two young daughters and being reminded of what the world looks like through the lens of a child.
NEWS & UPDATES
Phoenix New Times: “How a Phoenix Neo-Nazi March Led to Free Health Care for Immigrants”
NPR and WEMU 89.1 Morning Edition: “A Journey Around The World Through A Documentary”
Remezcla: Salud Sin Papeles (Health Undocumented) named among “The Must-See Movies at San Diego Latino Film Festival” 2019
Salud Sin Papeles elegida entre más de 600 películas presentadas al Festival Internacional de Cine y Derechos Humanos de València - Humans Fest
Salud Sin Papeles : Health Undocumented having its International Premiere at the Freedom Film Festival 2018 in Malaysia
KJZZ, NPR News Station - Phoenix Health Clinic Subject Of Upcoming Documentary 'Salud Sin Papeles'
AZ Central - A Phoenix health clinic offers hope for people with no insurance, no access to care
Cronkite Noticias - En la clínica PACH, la salud es un derecho humano
Arizona Commission on the Arts - Juan Freitez Official Grant Recipient for his work on Salud Sin Papeles : Health Undocumented
GALLERY
At the initial PACH clinic. Trying to be a fly on the wall, observing and trying to stay out of the way. We are incredibly thankful to the patients who allowed us to capture such intimate moments.
Our budget may have been laughable and we may not have had a formal studio, but the living room in my house worked as a default for many interviews. It became a hub for filming interviews about social justice and immigrants rights work in Phoenix.
Jose Reyes stole the show with his openness and laughter, captured in this interview with co-producer Pita Juarez. His story of perseverance in making it to the U.S. despite his physical disabilities and building a life here was an inspiration to me as a filmmaker, and as a fellow human being.
Jason Odhner was interviewed by co-producer Jessica Cvetic for over two hours in his home.
Our crew spent a day with No More Deaths (No Mas Muertes) making water drops in the desert. This small NGO provides live-saving water and supplies to migrants crossing the desert. It is one of the social and health justice initiative that led to the birth of the PACH cl
Water drops with No More Deaths (No Mas Muertes) in the desert along the border of southern Arizona.
This truck allows No More Deaths (No Mas Muertes) to penetrate harsh desert terrain to reach posts to drop water for migrants suffering from dehydration.
Adjusting levels in our “home studio” during an interview with Amy McMullen with our two-person crew.
Discussing patient cases.
Pera’s family welcomed Juan into their home to capture their entrepreneurial spirit, making piñatas to help support the family. After the shoot they shared delicious home-cooked Mexican food, and Juan felt as if he were back in Venezuela with friends.
Recording music for the film with Venezuelan friends, who double as talented musicians. Marian Hanneken on the violin and Jaider Blakadjda on the Peruvian cajon.
GET IN TOUCH
Thank you! We'll get back to you within 24 hours or so.