Dallas Theological Seminary presents an experience featuring dinner, film, and discussion on American life from the perspective of Asian Americans.
The Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that the Son of God demonstrated His care for humanity in a selfless act: He emptied Himself by taking on humanity. Paul argues that this is the model we must follow when caring for others.
This film night—designed by the Office of the President, The Hendricks Center, and Media Arts and Worship—aims to take a step in that direction. We intend to create opportunities for brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ to gather and dialogue with empathy about topics of great concern, seeking mutual edification. We desire to show that we reflect the gospel when people come together and take the time to understand and care for one another.
All are invited to celebrate with us the wonder and diversity of God's family—a family made up of every tribe, tongue, people, and nation whose destiny is to worship at the feet of the King who is sure to come again.
Details
Location: Lamb Auditorium (CAC 109)
Campbell Academic Center building
Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM
Dinner will be provided for those who register by October 12, 2026.
Far East Deep South
About the Film
When Charles Chiu travels from California to Mississippi to visit the grave of his father who abandoned him as a baby, he and his family stumble upon surprising revelations. With the help of local residents and historians, the family learns about the racially complex history of Chinese immigrants in the segregated South during the Chinese Exclusion era. Their emotional journey leads them to discover how deep their roots run in America.
The film provides a window into the struggles of Chinese immigrants in the American South during the late 1800s to mid-1900s and the discrimination they faced. The Chiu family’s history demonstrates how exclusionary immigration laws like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 separated their family for generations. This deeply moving and unforgettable story offers a poignant and important perspective on race relations, immigration, and American identity.
Disclaimer
Far East Deep South is mostly a family-friendly film, but please be aware there are a few racial slurs used in historical context as a few of our interviewees give firsthand accounts of being subject to derogatory comments.
Director/Producer/Writer
Larissa Lam is the director, writer, and producer of Far East Deep South. She is a native of Diamond Bar, CA and a proud UCLA Bruin. Far East Deep South made its broadcast debut on the World Channel (PBS) series, “America ReFramed,” and has won numerous accolades such as a 2022 Telly Award. Her work has been featured in various media outlets such as NBC News, USA Today, and the L.A. Times.
Prior to entering the film world, Lam carved out a distinguished career in music. Lam began her career as the Chief Financial Officer of NSOUL Records and went on to release four solo albums as an artist. Her song, “I Feel Alive,” previously won the Hollywood Music in Media Award for Best Dance Song. She has written music for films, video games, and TV, most notably for The Oprah Winfrey Show. Additionally, Lam has been a TV/radio host and keynote speaker at TEDx, Leadercast, and major conferences. She co-hosts the podcast Love, Discovery and Dim Sum with her husband, Baldwin Chiu, discussing history and current events through an Asian American lens.