PBS SoCal and KCET will present a screening in collaboration with LA Plaza De Cultura Y Artes in Downtown Los Angeles followed by a filmmaker panel discussion for the locally–produced documentary UNIDAD: Gay & Lesbian Unidos, the story of the Los Angeles area’s first major Queer Latin@ organization. The film chronicles events at a pivotal time in the history of LGBTQ equality, women’s rights and civil rights movements.
Celebration will begin with a pop-up market from Queer Mercado Queer Mercado and a local food vendor Tirzah’s Mexi-Terranean, followed by music and a conversation with the filmmakers and community organizers who work to uplift, support, and advocate for the queer Latinx community.
Event Schedule:
5:30 pm – Doors Open; Queer Mercado pop-up begins
6:00 pm – Performance by Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles
7:00 pm -Screening of UNIDAD
8:00 pm – Panel Discussion moderated by Dr. Veronica Terriquez, Director and Professor, UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center and featuring:
- Bamby Salcedo, President & CEO, The TransLatin@ Coalition
- Eddie Martinez, Executive Director, Latino Equality Alliance
- Rita C. Gonzales, film participant; Board Chair, Bienestar
- Gregorio Davila, Director, Producer
- Mario J.Novoa, Producer
- Roland Palencia, Executive Producer
About the film:
Gay & Lesbian Latinos Unidos is a documentary film about the Los Angeles organization Gay & Lesbian Latinos Unidos (GLLU). Founded in 1981, GLLU is one of the first major queer Latin@ organizations in the country. The film follows the group’s history and activism, from its early days fighting for AIDS awareness and LGBTQ rights. The film features interviews with GLLU members, activists, and community leaders, as well as archival footage of the group’s work. Unidad is a powerful and inspiring story of community, resilience, and the power of love and activism. Find out more at: www.pbssocal.org/shows/unidad-gay-lesbian-latinos-unidos