UCLA Library presents a screening of Ojalá Supieras (I Wish You Knew, United States, 2025), a documentary film which excavates the long-suppressed history of Islam in colonial Mexico. Drawing on unpublished manuscripts and inquisitorial records, director Dr. Mariam Saada reconstructs the lives of those persecuted for crypto-Islamic practice under colonial rule—restoring to view communities whose stories were deliberately buried.
The film reframes the cultural origins of Viceregal Mexico, revealing the intertwined presence of Muslim, Jewish, Christian and Indigenous peoples at the heart of colonial society.
Dr. Saada will introduce the film, with a post-screening Q&A to follow.
A selection of UCLA Library holdings curated by International and Area Studies staff will be on display.
English. 70 minutes.
RSVP is required. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows. Click here for more details.
Community partners: UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies, UCLA Islamic Studies, and UCLA Latin American Institute.
Cost : Free
Sponsor(s): Center for Near Eastern Studies, Latin American Institute, UCLA Charles E. Young Research Library, Islamic Studies