While COVID-19 still affects us in 2021, the New Bedford LGBTQ Winter Film Series still lives on! Thanks to funding and support provided by Mass Humanities, the Film Series will run digitally this year. Fans are urged to watch the films ahead of the main event, available on most streaming services and platforms. There are several DVD copies of each film located at the New Bedford Free Public Library— all you need is a SAILS Library card and a quick phone call!
The series kicks off with a discussion about the HBO biopic about legendary blues singer Bessie Smith on Sunday, January 31, at 3:00 pm. Speakers will talk about the Harlem Renaissance, blues in general, and the impact of Black LGBTQ+ people in the arts. To join the events, follow the New Bedford LGBTQ Winter Film Series on social media for appropriate links and passcodes.
“With COVID-19, we had to look at how we can restructure our format,” said Dan Everton, co-chair. “That is why we are happy to continue our programming online, in addition to a new, exciting way to make an impact on the community.”
New this year, the New Bedford LGBTQ Winter Film Series has the wonderful opportunity to give back to the community of artists, filmmakers, and LGBTQ people in our community. The Film Series will launch a ‘mini grant’ in March aimed toward helping burgeoning and student filmmakers in the LGBTQ+ community make a short film. In addition to a small stipend, recipients will have the opportunity to show their short films in October 2021 during LGBTQ+ History Month. Be sure to keep tabs on the Film Series for more details.
The full series is as follows: “Bessie” on January 31; “Love, Simon” on February 14; “Brother to Brother” on February 28; and “Tucked” on March 14. All films are to be watched on their own, and the Zoom event will be a discussion with guest panelists. Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss out!
To keep up to date, we invite you to follow us on Facebook at @NBLGBTQWinterFilmSeries or at www.sclgbtqnetwork.org.