Central American Premiere of Between the Stone and the Flower at El Salvador
After a year of several presentations and many awards, the film Between the Stone and the Flower (by Genie Milgrom) was finally shown in one of the countries where production took place.
On a touching date, Monday, October 7th, 2024, the premiere screening of Between the Stone and the Flower, a powerful and deeply moving documentary by Genie Milgrom, was presented in the heart of San Salvador, El Salvador. Organized by one of the Jewish communities of the country, Sinagoga Beit Israel (SIBI), this event marked a significant moment for the Jewish community as they came together to explore history, faith, and personal transformation through the lens of Milgrom's journey.
A Story of Hidden Jewish Heritage
Between the Stone and the Flower is more than just a movie documentary; it’s a deep exploration of faith, identity, resilience, and the hidden histories of Crypto-Jews. Genie Milgrom, a well-known Cuban-American genealogist and author, traces her family’s secret Jewish lineage that was hidden during centuries of persecution following the Spanish Inquisition. Raised Catholic, she found that her maternal ancestors had practiced Judaism in secret for over 500 years, and the film delves into her journey to reconnect with that heritage.
A Unique Voice in Jewish Documentary
Milgrom’s story resonates with innumerable individuals whose families were forced to hide their Jewish identities. Her research and dedication, documented in the film, offer a window into the perseverance of the Jewish spirit. The title, Between the Stone and the Flower, metaphorically represents the two customs of Christians and Jews when remembering their loved ones' afterlife. While Christians put flowers in their cemeteries, Jews put stones as a deep metaphor for the endurance and resilience of the Jewish souls.
A Meaningful Discussion
As part of a very special presentation, Genie herself and his husband Michael were there. Following the screening, they hosted a discussion where Milgrom herself shared insights into the making of the film and the emotional and spiritual discoveries she made along the way. The audience was captivated by her determination to uncover her roots, despite the layers of history that had obscured them.
Many attendees shared their own thoughts on the film, reflecting on how this story touches on themes that are universal—identity, faith, and the search for belonging. The evening was not just about watching a film, but about fostering a sense of community and continuity, linking us to the past while inspiring us to strengthen the Jewish identities in the present.
The event was also present the remembrance of the tragic losses from October 7th of 2023. Genie and some members of the audience were part of a. tribute marked by the lighting of 7 candles and a minute of silence. The atmosphere was marked by the same feeling of what could have been 500 years ago in the Inquisition.
Continuing the Journey
As organizers, Sinagoga Beit Israel (SIBI) is committed to offering programs that enrich the understanding of Jewish history and heritage. The premiere of Between the Stone and the Flower is part of that effort, opening the door to new conversations and reflections about the Jewish diaspora, cultural memory, and the importance of tzedakah in supporting these educational initiatives. We encourage all kinds of people to view this remarkable film and engage with the questions it raises. Stay tuned for future events and discussions, as we continue to explore the multifaceted history and future of the Jewish people.
