America has always offered the promise of freedom and opportunity to those who seek refuge on her shores. Today, however, the public perception of the American Dream has taken something of a beating. For those on the political left, America is a systemically racist country where the have-nots are doomed to a life of oppression and abuse at the hands of greedy corporations. For those on the right, immigrants are often viewed as a threat to their cultural identity, a drain on the nation’s resources, and a scheme to delegitimize the democratic process.
Both of these viewpoints overlook the fact that, for many around the world, America is still synonymous with self-determination. It is of course true that the United States is far from perfect, but contrasted with many of the socialist and fascist regimes that still exist around the world, it should come as no surprise that the country is still viewed as a beacon of hope for those struggling under the yoke of tyranny and despotism. For these people—and they are plentiful—America is not a place to collect welfare checks, traffic drugs or, heaven forbid, eat people’s pets. It’s a place to live and work in freedom, to live a life that they choose instead of one that is chosen for them.
Free the People’s film The Free Life: Portrait of an Artist tells the story of one such immigrant, the celebrated painter Carlos Luna who was forced to flee his home in Cuba or else face brutal repercussions from the censorious Castro regime. Luna was unable to keep his views about his government to himself, expressing his opinions in passionate and vivid colors the way all good artists should. Yet, for the crime of speaking his mind, he had to run for his life.
Carlos came to America not just for economic opportunity, although he has certainly found plenty of that, but because he wanted to live in a country where he would be free to paint whatever he wished. In today’s world of oversaturated consumerism, it’s easy to forget how precious, and how rare, that fundamental freedom is. Indeed, for most of history, artists put themselves at risk by daring to express views in conflict with those of their rulers, and even today there is no shortage of would-be totalitarians censoring art, music, and literature that doesn’t support their narratives.
Carlos’s story shows that the American Dream is alive and well, as he and his wife Claudia have found in America not only a place to exist, but a place to thrive. It’s an inspirational tale that we hope will make you rethink some of your preconceptions, however you feel about immigration and social mobility in the United States today.
Previously only seen at film festivals or in private screenings, The Free Life is now available for anyone to watch at watch.freethepeople.org. For a one-time fee of $9.99 (less than the price of a movie ticket) you’ll be able to watch the emotional story of a talented and passionate man building a better life for himself, his family, and his art. By watching this film, you’ll also be helping Free the People continue to document and promote stories like Carlos’, reaching out to the liberty curious and reminding the next generation that, despite what the election season ads might say, there is still plenty of hope and optimism left in this great country.
Add comment