Clairidge Theater Montclair, NJ
Saturday, I took the drive from the Hudson Valley to Montclair, NJ. This town is a blend of culture and charm, with a historic district of homes. The main strip is filled with bookstores, cafes, restaurants, and theaters, but I wasn’t there for the scenery. I was headed to The Clairidge Theater for an intentional, intimate, and necessary special screening of Brownsville Bred, hosted by Latinos of Montclair, a community organization that uplifts Latino voices in art and education and moderated by Victoria Jenn Rodriguez, business consultant and host of Banking on Cultura. There was nothing but Boricua and Latina excellence in the room.
Brownsville Bred
Written & directed by Elaine del Valle
There wasn’t a single person that wasn’t touched by this movie, there was some tears and a lot of laughter. Not only did it connect to the audience but also shed layers; I saw my community, the one I once lived in, my family, and myself. I saw a mother who is trying to hold it down for her children, a hardcore grandmother who taught tough lessons, a father lost in substance abuse, and children who carry grief and love all together. Although some may feel ashamed of this dynamic, it sheds light on this reality, and we do everything to continue protecting and loving our family.
Image (right) from Brownsville Bred, via Homepage | Brownsville Bred
Cultural disconnection
She mentions “getting back to la rumba”. This movie can speak to anyone living in the diaspora. For those who grew up to assimilate into the “American” culture to “fit in”. Who didn’t learn Spanish, loved American Pop culture and Hip-Hop, but didn’t understand the point of salsa and boleros, because it was just too “hick”. Too “jibaro”. We didn’t understand why the flag was everywhere and what it meant for us.
Manny’s Story
Elaine’s father’s story struck me as a surprise as a nurse. Elaine’s father lived with HIV and died of AIDS. Her depiction of his life was flawed, yet so tender all at the same time. Manny’s role was played by Actor Javier Munoz, who captured her father’s spirit and musical gifts, and is also living with HIV and a vocal advocate for HIV treatment and PREP.
As a nurse, I appreciated Elaine sharing this vulnerable story, which was honest about the harsh reality of substance use and HIV/AIDS that are still stigmatized in our communities, but this movie honored her father’s life.
As we approach World AIDS Day, I’m reminded of the quiet struggles that live behind closed doors and the ways families naviagte shame, silence and love. I’ve witnessed how silence can fracture connection and delay care. This is a reminder to educate, to advocate, and to honor the dignity for people living with HIV. Let their stories mean something.
Image (left) from Brownsville Bred, via Homepage | Brownsville Bred
“Make it Mean Something” -Angel Del Valle
Elaine did exactly what her father had hoped for. She created a space when no one made room for her or for us. Thank you for sharing these intimate moments and teaching us about forgiveness, grace, and making space when no one else does.
If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your culture or family struggles, this film is for you. And if you’ve ever thought whether your story is important or matters, let this be your reminder: it does, so “make it mean something”.
HVNY Rican 
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