SQIFF 2020: Pride and Protest
sqiff 2020The LGBTQ+ community has had a long history of both systematic and societal oppression and genuine hatred. The idea of being able to love whoever you love has long been a concept that various groups not only have refused to respect but have actively fought against. In response, the LGBTQ+ community have stood up for themselves in a defiant protest – not of screaming or violence but of pride. This sense of protest is beautifully captured within Blaise Singh's Pride and Protest, which is streaming as part of the 2020 Scottish Queer International Film Festival.
Focusing on a group of diverse LGBTQ+ voices coming together in response to a protest of LGBTQ+ material being included in a Birmingham school, Pride and Protest immediately stands out as a great exposé in the complex discrimination that the LGBTQ+ community can face. The group protesting against the LGBTQ+ material is not who you would typically expect from this type of protest. The majority of the protestors openly claim they are not anti gay and instead create more reasonable sounding claims. It is much harder to ignore claims for ending pedophilia than it is claims ending LGBTQ+ rights. Once one looks at the material, however, it becomes clear that ideas truly are meant to target the LGBTQ+ community. This snake in the grass approach to hatred and homophobia is equally as common of an enemy for the LGBTQ+ than outward homophobia yet due to its more casual and complex identity is far less represented on screen.
The film also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding the cross sections of identity. Whilst Pride and Protest is an undeniably gay oriented film, its main subjects are not just defined by this identity. From race to religion, Pride and Protest shines a light on how different parts of one's identity can lead to inner turmoil and complexities. Torn between groups with conflicting beliefs and core identities, it takes a level of self pride and acceptance to survive, which is another perspective that most in the LGBTQ+ can relate to in some way, that is found within Pride and Protest. These unique yet honest perspectives elevates the viewing experience of Pride and Protest beyond just that of an average look at the LGBTQ+ community and instead puts a voice to nuances within the LGBTQ+ experience which often is ignored.
For those looking for nuanced and honest examples of both the struggles and fight within the modern LGBTQ+ community, Pride and Protest is an easy recommendation. The film starts an important dialogue not normally seen in film, clearly coming from those within the community with something to say and leading to an inspired and moving final product that is well worth checking out for those who get the chance.
