Director’s Statement
I believe that to truly feel seen, we need to actively participate in creating a world that reflects both our unique identities and our shared humanity. This involves building safe spaces where we can grow without fear, both as individuals and as part of a collective. In these spaces, something transformative happens: we begin to connect on a deeper emotional level, and a simple, universal message resonates—‘I’ve got you.’ It’s a promise of support and understanding, a reminder that we are not alone and that we are truly seen in our shared journey.
In my native Turkish, we have a saying: gönül teline dokunmak, which means ‘touching the heartstrings.’ Just as a gentle touch can stir the strings of an instrument to life, my goal as a filmmaker is to create films that evoke empathy and spark meaningful dialogue, helping us see and be seen in the truest way possible.
Similarly, families with anti-bias values embrace positive social identities, respect and affirm differences, and take a stand against unfairness. While facing diverse challenges, these families are united by one central question: “What kind of world do we want to create with our children?” Gabrielle, a featured family member, shares, “When you surround your child with a supportive community, there are so many different ways for them to be reflected back to themselves. And in turn, when they have that confident sense of self, we hope that they’re able to give that to other people.”
Directing Families Embracing Anti-Bias Values has been a time of growth for me as I embrace my anti-bias journey. I’ve been inspired by the families to challenge my own assumptions. My hope is that the film can pluck the heartstrings of others while helping them to feel truly seen. To inspire us all to build a fair and just world where everyone is valued, cared for, and encouraged to lift up those around them.
Filiz Efe McKinney
October 10, 2024
