Colombian director, Oscar Molina, will be presenting his documentary, La casa de Mamá Icha. It is a profound portrayal of the impact of migration on the lives of those who leave and those who stay. The story follows a 93-year-old woman who, feeling the end of her life approaching, decides to return to her hometown in Colombia. After decades in the U.S. (particularly in Philadelphia) caring for her grandchildren and sending money to build a house in Mompox, her return is not as she had dreamed. Deteriorated family relationships and economic inequalities stand in the way of their reunion, starkly showing the emotional and material effects of migration. A harsh, sad, and, to some extent, silent reality.

On the PBS website, you can find more information about the documentary, along with discussion questions and additional readings to complement the conversation with students.