The Vancouver Queer Film Festival strives to advance queer culture with a strong commitment to paitring art with social action. During the 23rd Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival, we were honoured to screen the moving and poignant documentaries Gen Silent and Lost in the Crowd, followed by panels featuring the director of each film as well as local community advocates.

Gen Silent asks six elders if they would hide their identities in order to survive in the care system. From capturing human rights issues to sharing heartfelt memories, Gen Silent shows us how critical it is to acknowledge and care for our elders.

Director Stu Maddux joined Dean Malone, CEO of Plum Living Home Health Care, Sandra Mudd, Quirk-e author and activist, and Jean Wright, of South Vancouver Neighbourhood house for a discussion about elder care and creating a community of dignity  and visibility for our queer elders.  Moderated by Jennifer Breakspear, Executive Director of Qmunity.

Lost in the Crowd follows a group of queer and transgender youth living on the streets of New York City, where art, dance and “walk off” balls offer hope.

Director Susi Graf joined us for a post-film discussion about her film and how we can be active locally in supporting queer homeless youth, joined by are Aaron Munro, Shelter Program Manager at Raincity Housing, Lulu Gurney, Street Outreach Worker and Lauren Gill, social worker and housing advocate. Moderated by Amber Dawn.

Read more about the films and to find out what you can do to support LGBTQ elders and homeless youth in our communities.