Rooted - A Documentary by Atlanta Habitat for Humanity

A story about home, heritage, and the fight to belong.

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About Rooted

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving Atlanta, Rooted is a cinematic journey into the heart of neighborhoods fighting to hold onto their history, their culture, and their people.

Through lyrical storytelling and intimate moments, the film weaves together the voices of new and longtime homeowners, who have stood at the intersection of hope and hardship.

From the soft hum of a Sunday morning in Peoplestown to the echoes of construction in Browns Mill Village, Rooted captures the emotional landscape of a city transforming at a pace many can’t afford to follow.

What emerges is a portrait of Atlanta not defined by its skyline, but by its families and the people whose stories of resilience, loss, love, and triumph reveal what it truly means to build a life, a legacy, and a home.

Why This Story Matters

Atlanta is growing. Fast. Yet the communities that shaped this city, particularly Black families who have called these neighborhoods home for generations, face increasing pressure from displacement, rising housing costs, and limited access to stable, affordable homes.

Rooted shines a light on these realities while celebrating the life-changing impact of housing stability. Through Atlanta Habitat’s work and the stories of those whose lives have been transformed, the film challenges us to imagine an Atlanta where progress does not come at the cost of community.

This is more than a documentary. It is a reminder:

• A city can rise without pushing its people out of view.
• A community can grow without uprooting its roots.
• A home can change an entire story.

Meet the Voices Rooted in the Story

Inside the House: Premiere Recap

In its first viewing, Rooted premiered at Inside the House, an intimate gathering hosted by Atlanta Habitat President & CEO Rosalyn Merrick.

Donors, community advocates, civic leaders, and homeowners shared a morning of reflection and conversation, grounding the film’s themes in lived experience.

The morning affirmed what Rooted represents:

• A call to connection.
• A celebration of community.
• An invitation for Atlantans to reimagine what our city can be and how we can make it better together.

Host a Private Screening

The story belongs to Atlanta — and we want your organization, company or community group to experience it together.

You can request a private screening of Rooted. Each screening may include access to:

• The full documentary
• A discussion guide
• Optional Atlanta Habitat moderator or guest speaker
• Customizable Q&A experience for your audience