National Coming Out Day is an annual LGBTQ* commemoration celebrated on October 11th to mark the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. Coming out, an event and ongoing process of living LGBTQ* identities, involves openly embracing who we are and supporting each other in a climate of homophobia and other forms of gender and sexual-based discrimination and oppression. Appalachians face a pervasive narrative that rural spaces like the mountains, farms, and small towns of our homes are not affirming or welcoming and that queer flight is the best option. We also face significant erasure, as though we do not inhabit our home places or are an exception. Contrary to these narratives, Appalachia has a rich LGBTQ* history and queerness proudly mineralizes our bones, homes, and landscapes and is foundational to who we are as a region. Please join us on  for a virtual documentary film screening of three short films directed by young people from Appalachia through the Appalachian Media Institute (AMI) followed by an open discussion. These films by directors Oakley Fugate, Joey Salyer, Robbie Thacker, Destiny Caldwell, and Savannah Swiney present a variety of experiences and open space for recognition, discussion, healing, and pride. Join us in coming out and standing proudly with our Appalachian community as members and allies of the region's diverse LGBTQ* community. 

 

Films:

Not a Daughter (16:55)

Welcome to Dragalachia (6:23)

A Little Piece of Me (9:40)

 

Register here: https://uky.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtceqvpj0oGtKzy6CscC49gy_LYFzVguzI