I am a 57 year old, first generation St. Thomas born and raised white boy with two born and raised (on St. John) children who has lived more than half of his life on St. John. By trade, I am a commercial director/director of photography.

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Since Irma smashed Saint John, I've witnessed the diminishment of the local community into an identity, a product that is not only being cheapened but, more awfully, whose true story is being erased. I decided, therefore, to make a film.

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Articulated through the great grace and dignity and wisdom of 12 multi-generational Virgin Islanders, in the on-camera interviews I asked, listened, and felt our shared truths break through with riveting emotional integrity. I quickly realized that these island prophets needed to be seen and heard before it's too late.

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Thus was born Sunlit Saint John: an unflinchingly honest and constructive conversation initiated by outstanding citizens to advocate for our community and to agitate the 'powers that be’ for a future that honors truth, not spin; money less, and merit more.

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Our goal is to reclaim our narrative, our brand, and our spaces by consciously targeting the kind of development and tourism that will nourish our community with historical pride, the arts, and natural and cultural sustainability.

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To that end, there are important stories yet to be told, and more content addressing race and status issues soon to come. Feel free to help by sharing the posted videos and your constructive thoughts.

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Stay up!

 

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Eric Zucker

Founder & Director, Sunlit St. John