Gay USA

Gay USA

Stepping out of the 1960s in the wake of the Stonewall Riots, the 1970s would prove to be a decade energized by queer activism, political and social change and pride. Celebrating such a vitally important legacy, this collection of gay protest and parade films is an essential multifaceted document of a period of revolution and jubilation.

Heading this essential set is the incredibly poignant and mesmerizing feature documentary Gay USA from pioneering filmmaker Arthur J. Bressan, Jr. The film documents aspects of the gay rights movement during 1977, capturing the intersections of diversity in queer life; from vox-pop style interviews with lesbian feminists, street drag queens and straight allies while also taking a look at the fight against notorious homophobe Anita Bryant and her "Save Our Children" campaign. Conversations with dedicated gay activists and individuals who have recently come out are masterfully intercut with images of the vast spectrum of LGBTQ individuals and their supporters proudly marching through sun-kissed streets. As well as being politically and socially important and a perfect snapshot of a period in time of gay solidarity and resistance, it is also a sparkling film with inspired visuals.

Along with this magnetic feature comes four short films capturing queer liberation and protest. This includes activist Lilli Vincenz's Gay and Proud, which documents the first Christopher Street Liberation Day Parade, Gay Power from legendary artists and activists Sharon Hayes and Kate Millett, Parade from artistic all-rounder Ronald Chase and Freedom Day Parade by iconic filmmaker and choreographer Wakefield Poole.