Relative (2023), 71 minutes, Tracey Arcabasso Smith, dir.

This documentary journeys across four generations of an Italian American family as they uncover and begin to share their experiences of sexual trauma. Stirring home movies shot by the filmmaker’s grandmother create a backdrop that weaves individual stories together across the shifting landscape of time. The intimate and poetic exploration is a window into what it looks and feels like to break the silence on trauma as decades of secrets and long-avoided conversations surface, and the family, once bound by tradition, forges a new path forward. This film represents countless untold stories worldwide: Its courageous depiction of the struggle and complexities of abuse aims to connect with millions of silent victims and bring their experiences to light.

Post-screening discussion led by Olivia Tursi, John D. Calandra Italian American Institute.