A powerful documentary screening of “Sugar Pathways” by award-winning film writer, producer, and director Johanna Bermúdez-Ruiz at J & W Latin Bodega (J & W) Sunday night sparked discussions about migration, identity, and the historical struggles of the Puerto Rican and Virgin Islands communities.
Special guests in attendance included Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach, former Sen. Samuel Carrión, representatives from the Dominican Republic community, and members of the Taino nation.
The documentary traced the historical struggles of Puerto Ricans, particularly those from Vieques, who were displaced during the U.S. Navy’s invasion of the island, only 42 miles (69 km) from mainland Puerto Rico. The film highlighted the 1999 protests in Vieques and the 2003 celebration marking the Navy’s expulsion. It also explored themes of migration, including the movement of Puerto Ricans to St. Croix during the Great Depression and the lasting effects of these displacements on identity and culture blending.
Throughout the screening, references were made to the contributions of former delegate to Congress Donna M. Christensen, who was also present, and the struggles faced by immigrants facing discrimination. The film examined how Viequenses migrants navigated their new lives in the Virgin Islands while preserving their heritage, a sentiment echoed by attendees who shared personal histories of migration and adaptation.
One key discussion point was the impact of colorism and racism. Bermúdez-Ruiz shared her family’s experience transitioning from Vieques to St. Croix, reflecting on how much togetherness existed despite societal divisions. The documentary also explored the deep ties between Taino and Maroon communities, emphasizing a long history of cultural exchange and coexistence.
The evening took on a personal tone when Bermúdez-Ruiz’s sister, Wanda Belardo, owner of J & W since 1990 and chef who prepared a cultural experience, expressed her gratitude to Christensen. She emotionally spoke about the challenges of running a business and the vision that kept her going despite external doubts.
In addition to historical context, the film addressed the importance of mental health and community support. The film reflected on the changing dynamics of Crucian neighborhoods, noting how cultural shifts have influenced the local preference in music, language, dance, and food. The documentary also showcased the role of family-run grocery stores owned by Puerto Rican descendants, which once formed the backbone of the Virgin Islands before the rise of larger chain stores reshaped the local market.
The event was not only a reflection on history but also a call to action. Bermúdez-Ruiz shared the struggles of independent filmmakers in securing funding, stating that projects like hers often take years to complete due to financial constraints. Her education program, Silent Drift, aims to teach people how to make films, but she emphasized the need for greater support.
Following the 50-minute screening, a Q&A session allowed attendees to engage further with filmmaker Bermúdez-Ruiz. She spoke about her experiences documenting the injustices faced by Vieques residents, including her time living at a bombing site to capture evidence of land appropriations. She recalled moments of personal danger, including being grabbed by a sniper while filming the arrest of an archbishop and nuns protesting the Navy’s presence.
The documentary has yet to be similarly shown in Puerto Rico, due in part to licensing and subtitle challenges. However, Bermúdez-Ruiz, also principal of Cane Bay Films, LLC, remains diligent in bringing these stories to a broader audience, ensuring that the history and voices of displaced communities are not forgotten. Her mission is highlighted in a time where there are forces aiming to dismantle structures of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The screening was made possible through sponsorships from CC1, the Virgin Islands Casino Commission, VIYA, Patrick Vivot, Isle 95, V.I. Lottery and Le Jolie Events and Rentals. As the night ended, attendees reflected on the importance of preserving cultural identity while embracing the unity that migration has fostered between Puerto Ricans and Virgin Islanders.
For those interested in supporting Bermúdez-Ruiz, Cane Bay Films or learning more about “Sugar Pathways,” information is available at https://www.canebayfilms.com/.
