LACASA and The Arc Livingston to Co-Host Premiere Screening of ''NATTY,''

LACASA and The Arc Livingston to Co-Host Premiere Screening of "NATTY," a Film Highlighting Justice and Resilience for Survivors with Disabilities
Two free screenings set for September 4 in Howell

HOWELL, MI – LACASA and The Arc Livingston are proud to announce a special premiere screening of the documentary film, NATTY, a powerful and inclusive film that shines a light on 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. Two free showings of the film will be held at LACASA Center, 1920 Tooley Road in Howell on September 4 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Those wishing to attend should RSVP by clicking HERE.

About LACASA Center: This locally based nonprofit helps victims and survivors of child abuse, domestic violence and sexual assault. It also provides critical education programs to increase public awareness and prevent interpersonal violence in the community. More information is available at lacasacenter.org.

About The Arc Livingston: A nonprofit advocacy agency, exists to empower persons with developmental disabilities and their families to ensure that they as citizens are valued, and that they can participate fully in and contribute to the life of their community. More information is available at arclivingston.org.

Mona Shand

Chief Communications Officer

She/Her/Hers

LACASA Center

1920 Tooley Road

Howell, MI  48855

Office: 517-548-1350 ext. 2380

Cell: 517-599-6788

24/7 Helpline - Call: (866) 522-2725

24/7 Helpline - Text: (517) 777-8005

lacasacenter.org