The documentary “Between the Stone and the Flower: The Duality of the Conversos” follows the incredible journey of Genie Milgrom as she unearths her Jewish lineage, despite her Roman Catholic upbringing in Havana, Cuba, and Miami, Florida. Born into a Catholic family with Spanish roots, Genie felt a persistent disconnection from her surroundings. Her quest for identity led her to embrace Orthodox Judaism, causing a significant shift in her life and those around her.
Genie Milgrom’s journey took her across numerous countries, delving into medieval archives and tracking the secrets of her crypto-Jewish ancestry in places like Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands, and more. The film documents Genie’s relentless pursuit of her heritage, with support from her husband, Michael Milgrom, who is of Ashkenazi descent.
During the premiere, Genie shared insights about her motivation for the film, her family’s varied reactions, and her encounters with religious authorities. A pivotal moment in her story involves a piece of jewelry inherited from her mother, linking her directly to her ancestors. Genie’s dedication to digitizing Inquisition documents worldwide, including securing the Vatican’s cooperation, highlights her significant contributions to Jewish history.
Genie Milgrom is an acclaimed author, known for works such as “My 15 Grandmothers,” “How I Found My 15 Grandmothers: A Step-by-Step Guide,” and the historical novel “Pyre to Fire.” Her cookbook, “Recipes of My 15 Grandmothers,” preserves family recipes passed down through generations since the Inquisition. Her work in genealogy has earned her numerous awards, including the Florida State Genealogical Society’s Genealogy Outstanding Achievement Award. Genie is the Anousim Coordinator for Kulanu, supporting isolated and emerging Jewish communities, particularly in the Americas.
She has spoken at the Knesset in Israel and speaks around the world, bringing awareness to the topic of the Jews returning from the Inquisition. Her work has been showcased in the Jerusalem Post, The Miami Herald and other publications around the world. Most recently, she was awarded the Medal of the Four Sephardic Synagogues for her ongoing work in bringing this heritage to light.
During the premiere, Genie shared insights about her motivation for the film, her family’s varied reactions, and her encounters with religious authorities. A pivotal moment in her story involves a piece of jewelry inherited from her mother, linking her directly to her ancestors. Genie’s dedication to digitizing Inquisition documents worldwide, including securing the Vatican’s cooperation, highlights her significant contributions to Jewish history.
The American Sephardi Federation and Kulanu presented “Between the Stone and the Flower” at its New York premiere, offering audiences a profound exploration of the Conversos’ complex identity and enduring legacy. Through Genie’s personal narrative and her meticulous research, the film underscores the resilience and perseverance required to reclaim one’s heritage. It highlights the impact of uncovering and embracing one’s roots, not only on a personal level but also for a broader understanding of Jewish history. This documentary is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring quest for identity, making it an essential viewing for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Jewish heritage and the stories of those who have fought to reconnect with it.
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Authored by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide.com, and New York Jewish Guide.com
