In this video, the story of “In Joseph Ileto’s Eyes” is told through the voices of his brother, Ismael Ileto, along with Ismael’s wife Deena. Ismael reflects on Joseph’s life with tenderness and pride, describing him as a hardworking and humble man who took joy in simple routines like delivering mail and being present for his family. He recalls Joseph’s quiet strength, his dedication to service, and the deep sense of responsibility he carried as both a postal worker and a brother.

Ismael and Deena share how this tragedy turned an ordinary day into a lifelong wound for their family. But there was not only the grief and anger that followed but also the determination to honor Joseph’s memory by speaking out against violence and discrimination. Their voices anchor the story in resilience and remembrance, urging the community to carry forward Joseph’s legacy by standing against hate and fostering understanding.

Director Biography - Sean Niu

Sean Niu is a multidisciplinary filmmaker and photographer from Los Angeles, California. Sean graduated from UCLA with a MFA in Screenwriting. Sean also received his MBA from MIT and BSc from the LSE. Sean’s screenplays have received numerous accolades —including winning “Best Hour-Long Pilot” and “Best Feature Adaptation” at UCLA’s annual MFA Showcase, and as a finalist in the Sundance Institute’s Development Track.

Before filmmaking, Sean built products at MIT and Amazon in San Francisco and Tokyo that created alternate realities and helped computers see — now his stories address his anxieties for Asian Americans in a future he helped build. Sean volunteers as a board member and head of marketing for the 1990 Institute — a 501(c)(3) non-profit championing education on Asian American issues.