Queer As Films does the 'It Gets Better' Campaign

Sat 11 Dec, 6pmThe Annexe Gallery2nd Floor, Central Market Annexe, KL.

Seksualiti Merdeka launches short videos featuring Malaysians telling young lesbians, gays, bisexuals and trangenders around the country not to despair: yes, it gets better. And it is possible to live honest, proud, fulfilling lives in Malaysia in spite of the situation.NO ONE TO TURN TOWhen confronted with bullying, rejection or discrimination at school, most of us have our families to turn to. But for LGBT youths, even our families can be a source of rejection. With no one to turn to, and faced with the thought of living a life full of fear, hurt and hopelessness, it is natural we ask ourselves, what is the point of living?

Over the last few months, we have heard of a many cases of teenagers in USA committing suicide as a result of being bullied at school for being gay. Who knows how many more goes unreported there, or here? In response to the tragedies, American writer Dan Savage initiated a video project called "It Gets Better" in which LGBT (and some straight) adults, including many celebrities, record themselves telling the stories of how they survived their rough teenage years, and offering hope to young LGBT youths: http://www.itgetsbetter.org/

MESSAGE OF HOPE Inspired by Gabrielle Yong, the first Malaysian to post her "It Gets Better" video, Seksualiti Merdeka brings together 15 Malaysians from all walks and orientations and genders to share this message of hope. They are: Alvin Ng, Azwan Ismail, Gary Ooi, Joe Pang, Kavidha Natarajan, Michelle Nor Ismat, Nabila Nasir, Nisha, Pang Khee Teik, Peter Ong, Seetha, Sharaad Kuttan, Sulastri & Tina Fazlita Fadzil. Filmed by Jay Sheldon.

This event will premiere the videos before we upload them on youtube one by one. Come join us and celebrate. If you feel inspired to do the same, please go ahead and find a friend with a camera to record your message, and share it with us. Let's spread the hope.

Following this screening, we are also organising a fundraising concert: JUSTICE FOR SISTERS: Helping Mak Nyahs Fight Against Violence & Persecution.

QUEER AS FILMS: IT GETS BETTER IN MALAYSIA is held in conjunction with The Annexe Gallery's Art For Grabs: A Human Rights & Xmas Special. Click here for more info.