LGBTQIA+ Pride Month – June 2023

In celebration of Pride Month this June, we’re spotlighting vital films that advocate for the representation, equal rights, and protections of the LGBTQIA+ community.

 

The Trans List (2016)

This film explores the uniquely personal and shared lived experiences among twelve transgender Americans. Featuring candid interviews by author and transgender activist Janet Mock, this insightful documentary highlights the critical need for compassion, legal support, and protections for these marginalized citizens. View at the link in bio:

https://video.alexanderstreet.com/watch/the-trans-list/details?context=channel:academic-video-online

 

To Russia with Love (2014)

This 2014 documentary follows the detrimental impacts of Russia’s anti-gay laws leading up to the Sochi Winter Olympics. As the popular American figure skater Johnny Weir prepares for the games, he’s faced with the dilemma of whether to speak up in protest or compete quietly. Noam Gonick’s film provides a stirring look into the impassioned efforts of LGBTQIA+ Olympians to represent their community and country regardless of their sexual orientation. View at the link in bio:

https://video.alexanderstreet.com/p/79Wlvx0zr

 

Paris Is Burning (1990)

This Jenni Livingston’s 1990 groundbreaking film presents an illuminating look into the heart of NYC’s drag and ballroom scene during the 1980s. Filmed over the course of seven years, this remarkable documentary brings to light the vibrant creativity of these historically marginalized communities in the face of homophobia, transphobia, AIDS, racism, and poverty.  View at the link in bio:

https://www.kanopy.com/en/tulane/video/10910624

 

Indianara (2019)

This film follows the courageous efforts of a transgender revolutionary from Brazil to fight for the rights of her community under former president Michel Temer’s regime. With national violence toward members of the LGBTQIA+ community on the rise, Indianara sets out on a mission to seek equal rights and justice amid a highly oppressive political landscape. View at the link in bio:

https://video.alexanderstreet.com/p/vQ9OpDjW5

 

Bayou Maharajah (2016)

This Lily Keber’s 2016 documentary chronicles the influential life and legacy of legendary New Orleans pianist James Booker. Spanning from his early childhood as a piano prodigy to his later success abroad performing throughout Europe, the film blends rarely seen performances by Booker along with interviews from notable artists including Allen Toussaint, Harry Connick Jr., Dr. John, and Irma Thomas. As a highly distinctive, openly gay, and Black musician, Booker inspired many of his contemporaries and emerging artists to find their own unique style and voice.  View this stirring portrait at the link in bio:

https://video.alexanderstreet.com/p/MZ500Vv05

 

Written by Josh Windham

1/6/2023

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