Watch We Can Shine: From Institutions to Independence

We Can Shine is a documentary film from 2010 that follows the lives of three people with various intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition from institutional care to independence. The film explores what life was like for people with disabilities before institutionalization ended, and examines how the deinstitutionalization movement has impacted those who once lived in these facilities.

The three subjects of the film are Bernard Carabello, Michael Kennedy, and Christine Kurvits, each of whom have unique stories to tell. Bernard is a charming young man with Down syndrome who was once committed to an institution in Pennsylvania. Michael is a talented artist with autism who spent most of his childhood in a New York state institution. Christine is a determined woman with cerebral palsy who overcame many obstacles to live on her own.

The film is divided into chapters that follow the journey of each of the three individuals. The first chapter of the film introduces Bernard, who is now living with his family in a house of his own. We learn about his life in the institution, where he was neglected and mistreated, and how his family fought for his release. Now, Bernard works at a local hotel, and we see how his life has changed for the better since leaving the institution.

The second chapter of the film focuses on Michael, who has been working as an artist for many years. We hear from his mother, who speaks about the difficulties she experienced trying to get her son out of the institution and into the community. We then see Michael at an art show, where he displays his paintings and talks about the joy he experiences when creating art.

The third chapter of the film is about Christine, who graduated from college and now lives in her own apartment. We see her struggle to find employment, and witness the joy she feels when she finally lands a job at a local hospital. We also hear from her parents, who talk about the fears they had for their daughter's future when she was first diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Throughout the film, we also hear from experts in the field of disability rights and from people who have worked to help those institutionalized in the past. We learn about the harsh conditions in these facilities, and the progress that has been made since the deinstitutionalization movement began.

The film also examines some of the challenges that still need to be addressed, such as finding suitable employment for people with disabilities and the availability of affordable housing. It provides a glimpse into the lives of those who are on the front lines of this ongoing battle.

We Can Shine is a moving and inspiring film that shines a light on the journey from institutionalization to independence. It is an intimate portrayal of three individuals and their families, and the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way. The film offers hope for the future, and reminds us of the importance of treating all individuals, regardless of ability, with respect and dignity.

We Can Shine: From Institutions to Independence is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 57 minutes.