Ellis Island, 1902: Francesca and Alma are bound by their fight against the suffocating injustices of an immigration system rife with corruption. An Italian immigrant, Francesca arrives in America full of hope, only to encounter the harsh realities of Ellis Island—the gateway that becomes a barrier for many. Alma, an aspiring translator and advocate for women's opportunities, joins Francesca at the immigration center, where they navigate the trials of a prejudiced institution that threatens their dreams. In a place where ships often return the 'unwanted,' and women are underestimated, their remarkable friendship ignites a solidarity that will forge change and carry them through adversity. Based on true events, 'The Next Ship Home' reveals a gripping historical drama of two women's resilience and the bonds that defy an era's brutal challenges, reflecting a timely examination of America’s past immigration policies and the enduring spirit of those who enter its borders. Motivated by their shared secret and indomitable wills, Francesca and Alma's story honors the legacy of struggle and friendship that transcends Ellis Island's dark history.