What is "If Not Us"?
If Not Us is a documentary about students fight to end school shootings, highlighting young survivors and activists turning their experiences into powerful action.
Full Synopsis
If Not Us is a compelling documentary centered on the student-led movement to end school shootings.
Highlighting the voices of those who have experienced these tragedies firsthand—alongside a generation that refuses to accept the status quo—the film explores the powerful intersection of grief and activism.
It offers an inspiring look at how young survivors and passionate advocates are finding their courage, confronting systemic inaction, and bravely answering the call for change.
Join the Post Production Crew
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Official Trailer
Watch the trailer
Interviews
Wounded Gun Violence Survior and Advocate
Mia Tretta
Bio coming soon
Student Advocate
Micheal Citarella
Bio coming soon
Crew
Director, Co-DP, & Producer
Patrick Civitelli
Award-winning director and cinematographer Patrick Civitelli is best known for his documentaries Roma: WWF Superstar to Teacher, Ascending Beyond Shadows, and Paranormal Pursuits. Patrick is currently studying at Southern Connecticut State University, majoring in Communication and Film & Television with a minor in Journalism. He is a passionate storyteller and aspires to tell stories no one else will.
Co-Director of Photography
Tristin Reeder
Tristin Reeder is a director and cinematographer specializing in visual storytelling. A senior Film student at Southern Connecticut State University, some projects he has worked on include Ascending Beyond Shadows, The Yearning of One and Paranormal Pursuits. He is currently expanding his expertise in lighting and composition as an aspiring Director of Photography.
Audio
Graphic Designer
Production Assistant
Director's Statement
"In my lifetime, gun violence has sadly changed the American classroom. I was a third grader in the town over when the terrible shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School happened. This event became a defining trauma for my generation. For too long, we have been stuck in a dangerous situation where real solutions are delayed, and meaningful change feels forever out of reach. This inaction represents a serious failure to protect the next generation. This film is dedicated to the architects of tomorrow. By centering the perspectives of the youth, those who carry the weight of the future, I aim to amplify student voices that have long been sidelined. My goal is to shift the narrative from mere conversation to the catalyst for real, systemic change. We must refuse to accept this violence as normal. The time for indifference is over. Words alone are not enough; we demand immediate and clear action to stop this crisis, and we need it now. This conversation is the essential first step."
- Patrick C
Watch & Share
Darrell's Testimony
Chris's Testimony
Resource Center
Events & Screenings
Upcoming
More events to be announced...
Check back soon for updates!
Past Events
April 14th at 11 AM
SCSU Student Demand Action
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If Not Us Documentary Interview Tapings
SCSU Quad