Hear Me features seven young people from Western Massachusetts whose lives have been impacted by gun violence. The film explores root causes, personal stories of impact, and paths forward through the voices of those with lived experience. Check out the trailer.

The screening will be followed by a talk-back focused on gun violence prevention in Poughkeepsie, featuring Special Guest, Ykim Anderson.

Ykim is the Program Manager at SNUG. SNUG works with young people in Poughkeepsie who are at high risk of shooting or being shot. They work to prevent shootings, intervene before retaliation occurs, and to provide young people at the heart of violence with the support, resources, and hope to find another path forward. His work is guided by his own lived experience, having grown up in Poughkeepsie and spent 13 years in prison. Ykim is motivated by a desire to provide resources and hope to those seeking a second chance.

The film was produced by Vassar alum Jenny Herzog ’13.

Refreshments will be served.

Sponsored by Latin American & Latinx Studies Program, Jeh Vincent Johnson ALANA Cultural Center, and Engaged Pluralism.

Film Screening and Talk-Back is open to the public.