Chicago, IL — CHOKE, a powerful new short film from award-winning filmmaker Joelle Vélez, has officially launched its crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. The film tells the story of Zahra, a young Muslim woman who steps into the MMA cage not to chase titles, but to reclaim her voice, her freedom, and her identity in a world that has tried to silence her.

Set in Chicago and driven by a bold female-led creative team, CHOKE explores the emotional landscape of trauma, rage, and cultural pressure through an intimate lens. Zahra's fight is not just physical. It is spiritual, psychological, and deeply human. Vélez describes the film as "a personal reckoning and a cinematic scream after years of silence."

With only 29 days left and just two backers currently supporting the campaign, there is a critical window to rally a community around this vital story. The campaign is seeking support from those who believe in cinematic storytelling that is raw, layered, and socially relevant.

CHOKE is not a traditional sports film. It is a narrative rooted in emotional truth, representing women, Muslim voices, and individuals who fight battles the world often ignores. By backing this film, supporters are not only helping bring a story to life, they are investing in a movement that challenges stereotypes, uplifts marginalized perspectives, and redefines what strength looks like on screen.

Funds raised will go toward cast and crew, location rentals, wardrobe, post-production, and festival submissions. Every contribution will help ensure that Zahra’s story reaches the audience it was made for.

To learn more or contribute, visit:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/choke-short-film-fundraiser#/

For updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow Joelle Vélez:
📸 Instagram: @the.joelle.show
🌐 Website: joellevelez.com