Event Overview
Because stories don’t just move us — they change us.
Join us for a powerful weekend of film, conversation, and community at the University of San Diego.
Stories That Move Us: A Weekend of Film & Impact is more than an event—it’s an experience designed to spark awareness, deepen understanding, and inspire action. Through storytelling and dialogue, we explore the realities of disability, relationships, safety, and belonging.
At the heart of the weekend are two compelling short films by acclaimed director David F. Fortune: US (14 minutes) and NATTY (18 minutes).
David F. Fortune
Director | US & Natty
What You’ll Experience
Powerful film screenings centered on disability, family, and human connection
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Live Q&A with David F. Fortune
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Meaningful conversation on safety, relationships, and inclusion
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Human Library experience with one-on-one storytelling
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Community connection with advocates, students, and organizations
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Light reception and networking
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A purpose-driven experience honoring Sexual Assault Awareness Month
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This is a space to reflect, to connect, and to be part of something bigger.
Human Library Experience
One of the most unique elements of the event is our Human Library—an opportunity for attendees to engage in meaningful, one-on-one conversations with individuals who share lived experiences related to disability, advocacy, and safety.
Instead of borrowing a book, participants “check out” a person and hear their story directly—creating space for connection, understanding, and empathy.
This experience invites honest dialogue, challenges assumptions, and brings the heart of our mission to life.
Featured Films & Schedule
APRIL
18
SATURDAY
Manchester Auditorium | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Filmmaking as a Tool for Social Change
Explore the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change.
Saturday’s program features a screening of US, followed by conversation and insights into how film can shape perspectives, elevate underrepresented voices, and drive social impact. This session centers on the creative process and the role of filmmakers in advancing meaningful narratives.
Screening of US (14 minutes) followed by a Q&A with director David F. Fortune, and a community reception.
Light reception to follow.
About the film
US is a tender and intimate short film by director David F. Fortune, capturing the quiet beauty of a father teaching his young son with Down syndrome how to play baseball. What begins as a simple afternoon of practice becomes a heartfelt exploration of patience, resilience, and the deep bond that forms through shared struggle. With honesty and emotional clarity, US celebrates the everyday moments that shape family, connection, and the courage it takes to grow together.
APRIL
19
SUNDAY
Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice Theater & Garden of the Sky
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
The Natalie Project: Until Every Body is Safe
Sunday’s program features NATTY, an award-winning documentary presented in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
NATTY shines a light on the urgent and often overlooked epidemic of abuse impacting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—and the critical need for advocacy, education, and systemic change.
Presented by The Natalie Project (#UsToo), this experience goes beyond film to create space for conversation, connection, and community action.
Screening of Natty (18 minutes), filmmaker discussion, and a panel on healthy relationships and safety in the disability community, moderated by Emmy Award winning journalist Elizabeth Espinosa. Hosted by Shahriar Afshar.
Light reception to follow.
About the film
Natty is a moving short documentary celebrating the life and spirit of Natalie Rose, a woman with intellectual and developmental disabilities whose world is shaped by love, joy, and community. Through intimate interviews, the film honors her resilience while confronting the painful reality of the abuse she endured in a day program meant to protect her. Natty shines a light on the urgent need for safety and systemic change, reminding us why every body deserves dignity and protection.
ASL interpretation
Captioned films
ADA-accessible venues
Parking
Parking is available on campus. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking and walking to the venue.
Open to students, faculty, advocates, professionals, and community members.
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For questions, accessibility needs, or group attendance inquiries email julie@thenatalieproject.org
Event Guests
Master of Ceremonies
SHAHRIAR AFSHAR
Moderator
ELISABETH
ESPINOSA
Q&A
DAVID
FORTUNE
JULIE
NEWARD
PANELISTS
OTTO
LANA
DANA
PASTORA CARSON
YOLANDA
CRUZ
LEXI
BERNARD
Presented by
Sponsored by
Supported by
Planning Team
OTTO LANA
USD | Student
Alliance for Disability Advocates
JENNIFER TILLMAN
USD | Assistant Professor, Philosophy
LEXI BERNARD
USD | Student
Alliance for Disability Advocates
JULIE NEWARD
USD | Alumna
The Natalie Project
Community Supporters
Authors
Shahriar Afshar
& Derek Danzinger
