Alejandro made bread at New York's Tom Cat Bakery for 10 years. In April of 2017—when Immigrations and Customs Enforcement performed an I-9 audit of the company—he was given 12 days to leave his job, without severance or support.
Since that day, Alejandro has joined other food industry employees in the city to organize for more humane treatment. For him and for others who have quietly built productive lives in the United States, the dream is simple: a future where their hard work is recognized as a contribution.
Director's Note: This story does not have any footage of Alejandro working, because taking such footage would place undue stress and risk on him. Please appreciate this more direct glimpse into his perspective, and support his work by visiting brandworkers.org.
Music by James Boo.
Subtitles by Ricardo Davila.
Special thanks to Alejandro, Diana, Gabriel, other Alejandro, Angel, and Neil.
