Stop Time

A story of community, perseverance, and defiance of a deportation.

2022

50 mins

Stop Time tells the story of Lucio Pérez, a man who lived in a Massachusetts church basement for over three years in defiance of a deportation order. Lucio recounts the forces that brought him to the United States, entangled him in the immigration system, and ultimately led him to sanctuary.

"Stop Time is an excellent and exceptional teaching tool for multiple audiences....It raises an array of critical topics and questions that open the door to further study and debate."

David M. Hernández

Associate Professor, Latin American Studies Department Mount Holyoke College

Synopsis

Stop Time tells the story of Lucio Pérez—a father, husband and worker who took sanctuary in a Massachusetts church for over three years in defiance of a deportation order. Lucio’s moving narrative provides a window into the forces that brought him to the United States, entangled him in the immigration system, and ultimately led him to sanctuary.

The historical context of migration to the United States and the different tactics used to win more fair immigration policy are developed as an important part of the story, as Lucio works with faith leaders, activists, and immigration lawyers to find the best way forward.

Reviews

"Seeing the profound commitment of one community gave me new perspective on what it means to defend the rights of immigrants."

Miriam Lewin

Director, "Commandment 613"

Director Commentary

We wanted to make this film to document a critically important story unfolding in our community. Lucio was one of over 70 people around the U.S. who took sanctuary in churches under the Trump administration, and we believe it is essential for this history to be recorded.