A Journey Toward Understanding Immigration
Two years ago, Sam Soliman embarked on a journey to California, seeking to connect with his family’s roots. His parents immigrated from the Philippines to the United States via San Francisco when he was just one year old. Ultimately, the Soliman family settled in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where Sam, a 2016 graduate of JP McCaskey High School, has spent his entire life. His time in San Francisco was intended to deepen his understanding of both his heritage and the intricacies of the immigration process.
Documenting an Unexpected Turn of Events
During his journey, Sam received a $5,000 grant from the Lancaster Community Foundation, which allowed him to document his experiences. However, upon returning to Lancaster, his life took an unexpected turn. On August 4, 2025, his mother, Esther Soliman, was arrested by immigration officials after living in Lancaster for 25 years. The family’s last moments together were through brief phone calls before Esther was deported back to the Philippines. This life-altering event led Sam and his co-director, Sarisa Rotermel, to pivot the focus of their documentary. They discarded all footage from the West Coast and redirected their efforts to highlight the family’s struggles and experiences surrounding Esther’s deportation.
Almost American: A Film That Speaks Volumes
Now a 15-minute documentary titled “Almost American,” the film recounts Sam’s efforts to navigate the relationship with immigration authorities amidst a significant crackdown on undocumented individuals. On June 16, Sam is set to screen the documentary for the Hispanic Congressional Caucus in Washington, D.C., and participate in a panel discussion advocating for the DREAM Act, legislation designed to protect immigrants who arrived in the United States as children.
Facing DACA Renewal Challenges
Sam’s experiences highlight the anxiety faced by DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients, who must renew their status every 18 months. This process has become particularly arduous for Sam, particularly last year when his application was only approved days before his previous status was set to expire. The renewal process, requiring a work permit, identification, and a $495 application fee, causes constant stress for individuals like Sam, who worry about potential deportation and the consequences for their families and clients.
The Importance of Timely Storytelling
Sarisa emphasizes that “Almost American” aims to illuminate the stress and anxiety that DACA recipients endure during the renewal process. Given the current wave of immigration-related arrests and activism across the country, they felt urgency in releasing the documentary to engage a larger dialogue. Both Sam and Sarisa hope that lawmakers from both sides of the aisle attend the screening, fostering a collaborative effort to pass the DREAM Act.
Political Support and Challenges Ahead
As they advocate for the DREAM Act, which has seen various versions introduced since 2001 but never successfully passed, the filmmakers are eager to connect with lawmakers. A spokesperson for Republican Rep. Lloyd Smucker suggested reaching out to coordinate a meeting, while Smucker himself has expressed support for alternative immigration proposals that prioritize border security alongside pathways for DACA recipients.
Community Support and Future Plans
If the DREAM Act successfully passes, Sam believes it would alleviate a significant burden on his shoulders, allowing him to plan beyond the immediate future. Despite his mother’s deportation, he and his sisters are hopeful about reuniting with her soon. The support from the local community has been instrumental in helping the Soliman family cope with their circumstances, with nearly $100,000 raised through a GoFundMe campaign last year. Sarisa hails Sam as an “unsung hero,” reflecting the support he has garnered through community engagement and his contributions to local organizations.
