In one of Latin America’s most unequal countries, Francia Márquez, a Black Colombian rural activist, challenges the status quo with a presidential campaign that reappropriates the derogatory term “Igualada” — someone who acts as if they deserve rights that supposedly don’t correspond to them — and inspires a nation to dream.

Director Juan Mejía Botero’s exclusive access to Francia Márquez’s presidential campaign reveals an unwavering commitment to fight inequality. Márquez’s presidential aspirations grew from the roots of dedicated social and environmental advocacy in her rural community of La Toma. Botero integrates into Márquez’s trusted circle, closely observing her and the campaign team’s tireless grassroots efforts to push her candidacy forward, while archival footage of a younger Márquez in La Toma reminds us of her long-standing activism. Márquez’s resonant slogan, “I am because we are,” rings through gatherings, galvanizing the rural and Afro-Colombian communities Márquez is fighting for, and echoing through the growing number of younger Colombians inspired by her message. They look to Márquez, faces filled with hope for a future where they might finally be represented. Botero captures the thrill and magnitude of this historic campaign from an inspiringly intimate vantage point, guided by Márquez’s mission and the collective strength and aspiration of the people.—SO

Available in person. Also available online for the public (January 25–28) and credentialed press and industry (January 24–28).