It’s become a bit of a cliché to talk about how globalization and the Internet have brought diverse cultures closer. What comes through strongly in these films, though, is the reflectiveness, resilience, and downright familiarity of the individuals portrayed. These people are not victims, and nor are they strange foreigners whose customs are hard to understand. They could be our friends or neighbors. We owe it to them to listen to their stories, and to help.

For a full complete program of films at the 22nd Human Rights Watch Film Festival, click here.