I remember just how happy my father was in the photo above (center), when he became a U.S. Citizen.

In 1968 my Dad, Mom, and my brother left Cuba in search of a better life, and something many Americans take for granted, freedom.

Shortly after moving to Rochester, NY, my Dad, Mario Vara became active as a community activist, in the fight against police misconduct.

It hurt my Dad to see that after leaving his homeland behind, and his family, in search of a better life, what he saw was that law enforcement here engages in disturbing acts and atrocities including abusing and some in some instances even killing unarmed innocent people. 

As a result of my Dad's work, the Rochester, NY Police department made his life miserable.

They would harass and intimidate my Dad daily.

He couldn't even go out of his own home without certain members of the Rochester Police going out of their way to stop my dad and harass him.

Slowly my Dad stopped doing what he loved to do.

He stopped going to meetings, rallies and marches.

My Dad went from a vibrant, passionate man to just staying home.

Unfortunately, my Dad fell into a very bad deep depression and committed suicide in 1993.

The Rochester Police department did to my Dad what is a very common police practice which is to break someone down emotionally, and mentally.

It is far worse than any physical abuse and/or beating.

My passion stems from a something I said to my Dad.

At my father's wake, I made a promise to him, that I would continue his work.

Twenty years later, here I am, keeping that promise and honoring my Dad's work and his legacy.

As a result of my continuing my Dad's work, I have received death threats, and the most disturbing, messages, phone calls, and comments from people who obviously don't want me to do what I do.

But I continue with my work, as things like that, just serve to show me that my work is having an effect.

For years I have wanted to tell my Dad's story, and my continuation of his work, on film.

"A Promise to My Dad" will also confront suicide, something which has forever changed my life, and something which has changed the lives millions of families.

In addition to covering the costs of a small production crew which will be shooting the documentary, funds collected will go towards holding a film premiere as well as a speaking tour to not only tell my Dad's story, but also create awareness about suicide.

Please help me make this dream come true, by helping me make "A Promise to My Dad"

Thank you,

Davy Vara