#black-lgbtq-history

#black-lgbtq-history

Black History Month is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and courageous acts of people of African descent in the United States and around the world. This year, Black History month celebrates its 100th anniversary. And yet, Black History Month has failed to fully acknowledge or celebrate the contributions of Black LGBTQ+ people. Just as Pride Month remains overwhelmingly white in its representation, Black History Month continues to be deeply homophobic in its omissions.

Filmed over seven years, Paris is Burning follows queer men and trans women of colour who illuminated the ballroom scene with shade, fashion and fierce voguing. Jennie Livingston's documentary follows the lives of members of the community, revealing the poverty, racism and homophobia they faced. It is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the origins of modern ballroom culture and the resilience of marginalised communities. It also touches on issues that remain prevalent today.