“The Promised Land” is an award-winning story investigating a critical issue affecting homeless Veterans in LA (Photo: rebeccamurga)
“The Promised Land,” directed by Army Veteran filmmaker Rebecca Murga, brings to the forefront the pressing issue of Veteran homelessness, focusing on the West Los Angeles VA campus. The 388-acre property, which once housed 5,000 Veterans in the 1950s, now shelters just 233 Veterans despite a nationwide crisis.
Watch the short documentary on Longlead.com.
Murga’s short documentary, “The Promised Land,” part of the upcoming multimedia feature “Home of the Brave,” follows the efforts of Veterans fighting to secure housing on land originally donated in 1888 for disabled soldiers. Rebecca Murga, a former Army captain, captures the Veterans’ frustration as they face bureaucratic obstacles and delays in accessing the housing they desperately need. The intended use of the land contrasts sharply with its current state. Much of the property is now underutilized, with dilapidated buildings and spaces leased to companies like Fox Studios and Marriott, while homeless Veterans set up tents just outside the campus, as reported by Military.com.
The film portrays the emotional and physical struggles of these Veterans, many of whom feel abandoned by the system. Despite a 2015 lawsuit settlement intended to address the homelessness crisis, the VA has failed to complete many of the promised 1,200 housing units. This settlement has fallen short, leading to continued legal battles and growing despair among Veterans.
Murga’s background as a storyteller is deeply intertwined with her military experience and her Latinx heritage. She has worked on various TV series, including “WILL TRENT” and “SWAGGER,” and is currently developing a coming-of-age ROTC drama with Amazon Studios, directed by Spike Lee. Her journey began shortly after 9/11, serving as a Public Affairs Officer in Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan. Her service earned her not only accolades like the Bronze Star but also a profound understanding of the challenges faced by Veterans.
Beyond filmmaking, Murga is dedicated to mentoring and advocating for Veterans. She runs a nonprofit, Veterans in Media & Entertainment, which helps Veterans transition into the media industry. Her work often explores the intersection of her identity as a woman, a Veteran, and the daughter of Latino immigrants, tackling serious issues with both humor and heart.
Murga’s film, “The Promised Land,” is more than a documentary; it’s a call to action. Through her lens, Murga brings attention to the ongoing neglect and unmet promises that haunt the Veteran community. The film urges the VA and society at large to recognize the sacrifices of these individuals and to take immediate action to provide the support they deserve.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.