At the end of 2021, a film project over a decade in the making, was completed and ready for distribution throughout the community. Led by filmmaker Mary Jane Sullivan (affectionately known as MJ), who tirelessly worked for years to complete this important story of Colorado, of the United States overall, and to help the Valley tell this neglected piece of history and struggle. Unfortunately, at the beginning of 2022, MJ passed away unexpectedly, and the film was put aside as we all came to terms and grips with this monumental loss.

Working closely with her over the final years of the project, first as Editor and then as a Producer as well (after MJ decided to promote me), I find myself wanting so desperately to finish giving the film back to the community and the state. As that was what MJ and I were working on in her final days, as we collaborated with History Colorado to bring the film into the museums around the state and showcase this tale of land, broken promises, and perseverance. This tale of the San Luis Valley that stretches beyond those borders and our own.

It is to that end, and in her spirit that Permanent Marker Productions, in line with Now and Then Productions and MJ’s final wishes, is working once again with History Colorado to make that happen, and to release the community cut of the film through a select and coordinated tour of Colorado via the museum circuit and specific community events/screenings throughout the state. We want to honor this story, the Valley, and the poet/filmmaker who brought this film to life, as she always intended, and as the people of the Valley deserved.

More details on these events and more to come…