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ImageOut: The Rochester LGBT Film Festival 2018

Next Generation Series – A Gentle Reminder

Unlike the generations before them, today’s LGBTQ+ youth are most likely to see themselves represented not just in the media but in society as well. And often. A lot of times though, this privilege and the history of how we got to this point are taken for granted by young people. This year’s theme for the Next Generation Series focus on both representation and education. While it’s important for the LGBTQ+ youth to see themselves and the experiences that are relevant to them on screen, it is just as important to keep them informed on issues that affect everyone in the community.

The films in our Next Generation Series can hopefully guide, inspire, and empower not just the young but the old alike.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post tells the story of a young girl who is sent to a conversion therapy center by her guardians after getting caught in a compromising position with another girl. While this film is set in the 1990s, conversion camps are not a thing of the past. It is important to keep the discussion going to educate people that these facilities and the practice are dangerous to the well-being of the young people forced to undergo this therapy.

My Best Friend is an honest portrayal of friendship and sexual awakening. It’s important for young people to know that it’s okay to feel different from their peers and to develop feelings at an early age. These emotions should never be a source of guilt.

TransMilitary sheds light on the real struggles of our trans brothers and sisters serving in the military. This is an important documentary highlighting the need to continue fighting our rights and everyone in our big LGBTQ+ family. No one should be left behind.

Life in the Doghouse is the amazing and touching story of “Danny and Ron’s Rescue” and the extraordinary people behind it. And it’s a reminder for everyone that keeping our humanity and respect for other living things are just as important as fighting for our rights.

The youth shorts program Safe Space is back again this year complete with many LGBT stories that are fascinating, entertaining, inspiring, and, most of all, relatable.

As always, all programs in this series are free to anyone under the age of 25. Tickets can be obtained only during advance in-person ticket sales or at the box office before each screening. Please be prepared to show proper ID.

Find out more about the films in the Next Generation Series.