Eric Kleppe-Montenegro

Eric Kleppe-Montenegro is interested in challenging dominant narratives about marginalized communities and highlighting change-makers through storytelling. Growing up as a Colombian-American helped him understand the damage of pervasive stereotypes commonly reproduced in film and television. He also recognizes the true beauty that is left out of narrow perspectives, a beauty which should be celebrated. Eric is passionate about creating impactful art that uplifts and inspires viewers. This passion led him to documenting social justice movements for the last decade, specifically within the immigrant rights movement, and allowed me to collaborate with creatives across lines of difference. Through years of filming protests, conferences, and educational material I learned how to turn moments into messages. My experiences as both a community organizer and storyteller taught me the transformational power of narratives rooted in reality. My personal involvement gave me the access required to document events in a way that is intimate and honest. I seek to tell stories which demonstrate the strength and beauty of our communities.