This October, the critically acclaimed documentary *Nurse Unseen* makes its New York debut at Quad Cinema, shedding light on the untold stories of Filipino American nurses who served on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Directed by Michele Josue, *Nurse Unseen* explores the often-overlooked history, sacrifices, and contributions of Filipino nurses in the United States healthcare system.
The film dives into the personal experiences of Filipino nurses, highlighting the immense risks they faced during the pandemic while enduring the rise of anti-Asian hate. It uncovers the deep historical connections between the Philippines and the U.S., illustrating how colonial ties have resulted in the significant presence of Filipino nurses in the American healthcare landscape.
At its core, *Nurse Unseen* is a poignant exploration of the Filipino-American experience, offering insights into immigration, labor, and the global movement of healthcare workers. The film not only pays tribute to the unsung heroes of the pandemic but also provides a glimpse into the humanity and resilience of Filipino nurses, many of whom work thousands of miles away from home.
As part of its screening at Quad Cinema, *Nurse Unseen* will feature a series of Q&A sessions with the filmmakers and notable figures in the healthcare and Filipino-American communities. Audiences will have the chance to hear from director and producer Michele Josue, producer Carlo Velayo, as well as representatives from the Philippine Nurses Association of America (PNAA) and the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS), among others.
Here are the scheduled Q&A appearances:
Friday, October 4
4:20 PM: Q&A with Michele Josue, Carlo Velayo, and MariLou Prado-Inzerillo, Vice President of Nursing Operations at NewYork-Presbyterian
7:00 PM: Q&A with Michele Josue, Carlo Velayo, registered nurse Quimberly de Leon (Villamer), and John Sapida, Co-President of FANHS Metro NY Chapter
Saturday, October 5
4:20 PM: Q&A with Michele Josue and Carlo Velayo
7:00 PM: Q&A with Michele Josue, Carlo Velayo, Dr. Mary Joy Garcia-Dia (former president of PNAA), and Dr. Kevin Nadal, President of FANHS
Sunday, October 6
4:20 PM & 7:00 PM: Q&A with Carlo Velayo and representatives from PNAA and FANHS
*Nurse Unseen* is a vital and timely film that celebrates the courage and dedication of Filipino nurses, while also honoring the legacy of those who have passed on due to the pandemic. With its emphasis on historical roots and the Filipino cultural perspective, the documentary highlights the deep and enduring impact of these healthcare workers on the U.S. healthcare system. This event at Quad Cinema is not to be missed by anyone interested in healthcare, history, or the Filipino-American experience.
