I Breathe Life! The Story of Monica Daye & SUSO


I BREATHE LIFE! The Story of Monica Daye & SUSO, A documentary film by Leslie Cunningham and Debbie Vu

I BREATHE LIFE! is a stirring, hour-long documentary that leverages the power of nonfiction storytelling to advance social justice and collective healing. The film follows the transformative journey of Monica Daye, an award-winning spoken word artist, survivor, and founder of Stand Up Speak Out-NC (SUSO)—a Durham-based organization using art and advocacy to break the silence surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault.

Set in Durham, a city rooted in Black cultural resilience and progressive activism— the film explores how Monica’s lived experience as a survivor fuels her leadership in building safe spaces for youth, young women, men and communities of color. Through intimate storytelling, poetic performance, and community dialogue, the film centers those most affected by systemic injustice and amplifies voices often left unheard.

By documenting Monica’s journey and SUSO’s community-driven work, I BREATHE LIFE! connects local stories to national conversations about gender-based violence, racial justice, and healing.

I BREATHE LIFE! demands that we listen—truly listen—to those too often unheard, and join the movement to stand up, speak out, and breathe life into change.

Status:

  • In Production. Coming 2026.

DONATE

Crew:

  • Leslie Cunningham – Leslie Cunningham is a Durham-based filmmaker and the creative force behind TRIBES Entertainment. With a rich background in documentary filmmaking and a degree from the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University, Leslie directs and produces compelling narratives that explore music, arts, and culture. Her debut feature, “M.I., A Different Kind of Girl,” has been recognized at various film festivals.
  • Debbie Vu – Debbie Vu brings a passion for storytelling to her role as co-director and co-producer. With a background in electronic journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill, Debbie found her niche in documentary filmmaking, focusing on stories of hope and inspiration.

Contact:

  • Email lesliecunninghampro@gmail.com.