Watch My Name Is Pedro

My Name Is Pedro is a heartwarming documentary that chronicles the life and legacy of Pedro Santana, a beloved educator and political trailblazer in the city of New Britain, Connecticut. Directed by Lillian LaSalle, the film blends archival footage, interviews with friends and colleagues, and personal reflections from Santana himself to paint a vivid picture of his journey from a struggling high school student to a community leader who has inspired countless others to pursue their dreams.

The film opens with Santana recounting his childhood in Puerto Rico, where he faced poverty, discrimination, and violence on a regular basis. Despite the odds, he managed to excel in school and eventually moved to the United States to pursue higher education. This decision proved to be life-changing, as he discovered his passion for teaching and began to develop a unique approach to education that emphasized social justice, community engagement, and cultural sensitivity.

As Santana's reputation grew, he became a sought-after speaker and organizer, using his platform to advocate for issues such as bilingual education, fair housing, and workers' rights. He also founded a number of organizations and initiatives, including the Institute for Community Research, which continues to serve marginalized communities in Connecticut today.

Interspersed with these accounts are testimonials from Santana's family, friends, colleagues, and former students, who describe him as a visionary, a mentor, and a role model. Many of them credit him with changing their lives, providing them with the tools and inspiration they needed to overcome personal challenges and achieve success. One of the most moving examples is Myriam Aponte, a young woman from a troubled background who found a sense of belonging and purpose under Santana's guidance.

The film also explores Santana's personal life, including his marriage to his wife Pearl and his relationship with his children and grandchildren. It is clear that his family is a source of great pride and joy for him, and that he values their support and encouragement immensely. In fact, one of the most poignant moments in the film comes when Santana tearfully reflects on the toll that his activism has taken on his family, and how he wishes he could have been more present for them at times.

Through it all, My Name Is Pedro paints a portrait of a man who has dedicated his life to serving others, and who embodies the values of compassion, courage, and resilience. It is a film that celebrates Santana's many achievements, while also recognizing the challenges and sacrifices he has faced along the way. Ultimately, it is a tribute to the power of education, community, and hope, and a reminder of the impact that one person can have on the world.

My Name Is Pedro is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.7.