The Chicago Public Library, in association with the Queer Film Society, present Celebrating Diversity, a free series celebrating LGBTQ movies in honor of Gay Pride month.
The series comprises three free screenings and a book reading/multimedia event taking place on Tuesday, June 4, Wednesday, June 12, Tuesday, June 18, and Wednesday, June 19 at various branches of the Chicago Public Library (see complete listings below). All the screening events will feature discussion and Q&A following the film. The lineup for Celebrating Diversity focuses on the varied cultures within the LGBTQ community and aside from celebrating these diversities, explores many of the unique challenges these groups also face. This series contains films with mature subject matter. Viewer discretion is advised.
Tuesday, June 4 — Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State)
Doors at 5:30pm/6pm screening
How Do I Look (2006): A documentary examination of Harlem's famed Ballroom scene which brought the world the "voguing" sensation. The film focuses on many of the artists from the scene in the years after the international success of the Paris Is Burning documentary and the social and cultural issues they continue to face. Director Wolfgang Busch will be present for a post-screening discussion.
Wednesday, June 12 — Humboldt Park Branch (1605 N. Troy)
Doors at 5:30pm/6pm screening
Mosquita y Mari (2012): Writer-director Aurora Guerrero's tender coming of age story that focuses on the friendship between two young Chicanas that slowly blossoms into more. A complimentary DVD of the film (courtesy of Wolfe Video) will be raffled off. Queer Film Society Founder/President Richard Knight, Jr. will lead a post screening audience discussion.
Tuesday, June 18 — Logan Square Branch (3030 W. Fullerton)
Doors at 5:30pm/6pm screening
On the Downlow (2004) Isaac and Angel are two young men living in Little Village. They have a secret love affair in a world where such secrets can cause complications more painful than either of them foresee. DVD copies of the film will be available for purchase. Director and co-writer Tadeo Garcia and co-writer Roger B. Domian will be present for a post screening discussion.
Wednesday, June 19 — Sulzer Regional Branch (4455 N. Lincoln Avenue)
Doors at 6:30pm/7pm presentation
Queue Tips: Discovering Your Next Great Movie (2012): Book reading and signing Author and Queer Film Society member Rob Christopher presents an overview of his 2012 book "Queue Tips," a guide to help movie fans decide what to watch next while utilizing the DVD selections from the local library. Writer-performance artist David Kodeski presents a multimedia version of his contribution to "Queue Tips," a chapter titled "That Magic Moment, Homoerotic Display in Heternormative Cinema" which delves into the homoerotic content in the 1961 Susan Hayward-John Gavin film Back Street and other movies. Rob Christopher will sign copies of his book (which will be for sale).
For more information on Celebrating Diversity and other LGBTQ themed events throughout the month of June at the Chicago Public Library please visit www.ChiPubLib.org . In addition, a bibliography of select books about LGBT Americans is available year round on the Library's website and at branch locations.
THE QUEER FILM SOCIETY
The Queer Film Society (QFS) is a consortium of LGBT film critics, historians, artists, and scholars dedicated to the exploration and celebration of queer images in world cinema. Recognizing the diversity of identities and perspectives that comprise its membership, QFS is committed to showcasing vital films from equally vital, and sometimes widely varied, vantage points. From mainstream to underground and from artist to audience, a distinct and communal sensibility informs the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) cinema experience. Further information about the Queer Film Society at www.QueerFilmSociety.org .
CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Chicago Public Library continues to encourage lifelong learning by welcoming all people and offering equal access to information, entertainment and knowledge through materials, programs and cutting-edge technology. Through its 79 locations, the Library provides free access to a rich collection of materials, both physical and digital, and presents the highest quality author discussions, exhibits and programs for children, teens and adults. For more information, visit chicagopubliclibrary.org, or call (312) 747-4050.
