Soy Boricua

Josephine Ann, a second-generation Puerto Rican American, grew up in Red Lion, Pennsylvania, a town with a history of racism and segregation. She faced intense self-consciousness about her Hispanic features and struggled with racism, especially during the first two years of Donald Trump's presidency, which marked a period of heightened bigotry at her high school. When her family moved to Florida, Josephine hoped to find a more accepting environment. Over the past eight years, living in Florida has been a journey of self-discovery. Reconnecting with family, making new friends, and visiting Puerto Rico have helped her embrace her identity. Despite struggling with her Hispanic heritage, Josephine has found pride in her roots and her connection to her Taíno ancestors, proudly declaring, "Soy Boricua" (I am Puerto Rican).

  • Josephine Ann Gonzalez
    Director
  • Josephine Ann Gonzalez
    Writer
  • Josephine Ann Gonzalez
    Producer
  • Elda Tuchman
    Director of Photography
  • Genesis Downs
    On Site Sound Recordist
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    10 hours
  • Completion Date:
    April 20, 2025
  • Country of Origin:
    United States, United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Puerto Rico
  • Language:
    English, Spanish
  • Shooting Format:
    digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - university of central florida
Director Biography - Josephine Ann Gonzalez

Based in Orlando, Florida, Josephine Ann is a senior film student at the University of Central Florida. Soon to graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in documentary filmmaking, Josephine specializes in film production management. From 2023 to 2024, she directed, produced, and edited her first short documentary, SWAN Song: The Silent Battle of Roe v Wade. Currently, Josephine is in post-production for her second short documentary, Soy Boricua.

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Director Statement

By conducting and documenting research relating to the United States’ historical treatment of Puerto Rico, reflecting on past life experiences, and furthering her current relationship with the island, Josephine Ann will create a self-reflective documentary that explores her trials and triumphs in the journey to find herself as a Boricua. Her ultimate goal is to unify a community where people can unapologetically showcase their pride in their heritage and culture.