City Councilors Angelita Morillo and Jamie Dunphy will host Portland-based youth organization Outside The Frame for a screening of films written, directed, and produced by local youth who have experienced homelessness. The event will take place Wednesday, November 18 at 4:30 PM at the Portland City Hall Atrium, 1221 SW 4th Avenue. The event is free and open to the public, with filmmakers in attendance.

“These films express hard-earned truths,” said Nili Yosha, Executive Director of Outside The Frame. “Screening them at City Hall, where decisions profoundly impact the lives of homeless youth, celebrates the insight and talents of the filmmakers while restoring a sense of dignity and possibility."

The screening program will highlight Outside The Frame’s model educational and vocational program, which operates on the foundational belief that young people need more than their basic needs met to thrive. Participants create films about issues that matter to them and share them with the public.

“Outside the Frame empowers people to act within their own agency and to do things that are creative and beautiful and organic,” said program participant Monet Wilds. “More than just something to chew on. More than just somewhere to be. Outside the Frame is doing something for our souls; they're giving us something for our hearts. Outside the Frame programs inspire you, grow you, love you.”

“Outside the Frame opens so many doors for people,” said Carmelo Cherastil, who traveled to the Friday Harbor Film Festival in Washington last month to screen his directorial debut. “I've never looked back to being on the street and I just keep making movies.”

“It’s one of a kind,” said Lucius Lowe, a participant in Outside the Frame’s flagship three week film intensive program. “I haven't seen anything like it. It's very helpful. It builds confidence for people. It’s a real opportunity to gain resume experience and make money.”

The featured films on the City Hall program offer a direct look into the lives of a population where BIPOC, LGBTQ+ youth, and people with disabilities are disproportionately over-represented.

Event Schedule:

4:30 PM: Doors open and refreshments served (Portland City Hall Atrium)

5:00 PM: OTF Screening program begins

6:00 PM: Special ceremony at Council Chambers

Outside The Frame is a Portland-based non-profit organization providing a creative outlet, job training, and a sense of dignity to youth experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity through the art of filmmaking. Learn more here.