"FROM SUGAR TO DIAMONDS"
"From Sugar to Diamonds" - The Monument
Big Dream Sculptures -- Lori Acott and Adam Schultz -- provide this rendition of the monument to honor the Fort Collins Mexican, Mexican-American, and Hispanic Baseball Players and the Leagues they formed in the 1930s to 1960s
"From Sugar to Diamonds" is used with permission from Jodie L and Gabriel A Lopez whose book bears the same title. Although the titles are the same, the book tells the story of the, "Greeley Grays and the teams that dared to challenge them."
Our monument and documentary film tells the story of the players on the 4 teams from the Fort Collins area and the league they formed for their love of the game and their inability to play in the "white" leagues as a result of discrimination.
A bronze replica of the monument is planned for completion in September/October 2025 timeframe.
Your support—whether through funding, partnerships, or spreading the word—will bring this important story to life and help preserve an essential piece of history.
Check back for updates.
"From Sugar to Diamonds" - The Documentary Film
Honoring the Fort Collins Mexican, Mexican-American, and Hispanic Baseball Players and the Leagues They Formed in 1930s to 1960s
This project is rooted in Mujeres de Colores' passion for preserving and sharing the rich history of Mexican, Mexican-American, and Hispanic communities. "From Sugar to Diamonds", the documentary film, tells the powerful and often overlooked story of the men who emerged from the sugar beet fields of Northern Colorado between the 1930s and 1960s—not only to work but also to play the game they loved: baseball.
These players were pioneers. They overcame discrimination and economic hardship to compete in a sport that did not always welcome them. Their courage and passion laid the groundwork for future generations of athletes of color. This film highlights their journey—from dusty fields and makeshift uniforms to becoming community heroes and role models, ultimately helping pave the way for Latino representation in professional baseball, including today’s athletes playing for teams like the Colorado Rockies.
Mujeres de Colores, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to elevating the voices and stories of our community. We are committed to ensuring this legacy is not forgotten. This film is more than history—it is a celebration of perseverance, community, and love for the game.
The documentary is in its final stages of production. Our intent is to have the trailer completed in time for Hispanic Heritage Month of 2025 (September / October) timeframe. A most heartfelt THANKS! to Interfaith Solidarity and Acompaniment Coalition of Northern Colorado (ISAAC NOCO) for their sponsorship of the trailer.
Many thanks to Jason Van Vleet of Iconic Digital Studios, Amy Esch (Photographer), Braydon Walker, Fort Collins Public Media, Gabriel and Jody Lopez.
Your support—whether through funding, partnerships, sponsorships, or spreading the word—will bring this important story to life and help preserve an essential piece of history.
Check back for updates.