LACASA and The Arc Livingston are co-hosting a special premiere screening of the documentary film, “NATTY,” a powerful film highlighting the urgent need for safety, justice, and accountability for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), particularly survivors of sexual assault.
Created in partnership with neurodiverse filmmakers, “NATTY” explores the life of Natalie, a woman with IDD who navigates the profound trauma of sexual assault she experienced while in a day program. The film, a story of resilience and survival, is a call to action for collective change and compassion at the intersection of abuse and disability.
“LACASA is committed to serving all survivors, and this film powerfully illustrates why we must all work together to ensure that individuals with disabilities have a voice and a pathway to safety and justice,” said LACASA Sexual Assault Response Team Manager Sherry Boroto.
The film’s producer, Julie Payne-Neward, cited the lack of protections and awareness faced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as a major motivation for making the film. Her hope that it will spark meaningful conversations that lead to lasting change is shared locally.
“Our mission is to advocate for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so this story is deeply resonant,” said Arc Livingston Executive Director Laura Sauer. “We hope this screening raises critical awareness and inspires our community to demand a safer world for everyone.”
By collaborating with filmmakers with IDD, NATTY is not only about disability, it is authentically shaped by the voices of those who live it. The film is a reminder that dignity and joy can be found even in the face of unimaginable injustice.
Attendees can be part of the first public audience in the country to see this moving documentary film. Free showings will be shown at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at LACASA Center, 1920 Tooley Road in Howell. Reserve your seat by clicking HERE.
