I finally saw Rosie Perez documentary titled, “Yo Soy Boricua, Pa’Que Tu Lo Sepas!” 
This is her directorial debut in which she goes in search of her indentity as a Puerto Rican American citizen.  In this process she not only begins to learn of her family’s history but also the history of Puerto Rico and it’s relationship with the United States.  I journeyed with her from New York to the island itself to Florida and back to New York.  I learned more about the conflicts between the languages, culture, education, work, belief, government and people interactions.

Til this day, I find myself caught between worlds and I understand why Rosie made this documentary except that even now I still feel the same way.  I think a lot has to do with where you’re raised and from where on the island your family lived. 

Luckily for Rosie, she has family members willing to share their stories unlike my own.  I have heard a little here and there but most family members wish not to discuss, are too old to recall or are no longer living with us.  I am aware that my family has a rich history and that there are a few family members with very interesting lives who’s story remains untold.

This sadden me because I’m neither here nor there.  No matter how hard I work, excel, educate or how giving and sincere I am — I’m forever being judged not by who I am but by what I am and the colour of my skin. 

Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican are like an exotic mystical story.  Some American knows or think they know Puerto Ricans and even the younger generation of Puerto Ricans think they know when in reality it is bits & pieces. These bits and pieces are at times quite misleading.  I’m glad that Rosie did this project because it gave me more information and yet it left me with more questions.

It’s true what Rosie said growing up in a Puerto Rican home there is a level of pride that you can’t help but to yell out, ” Viva Puerto Rico, Yo soy Boricua.” 

I’m proud to be an American and live in this great land of opportunities. 
There is a tune that express not only myself but how most Puerto Rican feel. 
It’s called, “En mi viejo San Juan.”