Outfest 2023

Downtown Los Angeles, CA

I had the incredible opportunity to attend OUTFEST this year for the first time! OUTFEST is an event that celebrates and empowers LGBTQIA+ artists and storytellers. This invitation came straight from the executive director of OUTFEST, and needless to say, I was over the moon with excitement. As a passionate advocate for queer representation in the entertainment industry, I couldn’t wait to be in the company of some of the most talented queer individuals shaping the world of arts and media today. 

OUTFEST, established in 1982, holds a unique position as one of the only global LGBTQIA+ arts, media, and entertainment organizations. Their mission is not only to empower artists but also to transform the world through their stories, all while supporting the entire life cycle of their careers. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, they are dedicated to creating visibility for diverse LGBTQIA+ narratives and providing a platform for queer voices to be heard. 

The event was nothing short of spectacular. I found myself surrounded by an incredibly welcoming and passionate community of like-minded individuals, all dedicated to furthering the cause of LGBTQIA+ representation in the arts. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of unity and purpose that was truly inspiring.

One of the highlights of the event was an early screening of “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe,” a highly anticipated film adaptation of Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s beloved novel. This heartwarming coming-of-age story explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, making it a perfect fit for OUTFEST’s mission of promoting empathy and meaningful social change. 

What made the screening even more special was the opportunity to meet the stars of the movie, Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales. Their dedication to their roles and the powerful message of the film were truly evident in their performances. It was an honor to meet them and share their excitement for the project.

But the connections I made at OUTFEST didn’t stop there. I had the privilege of meeting Cheri Moon, a talented musician, creative force, and muse. Cheri’s passion for using art to tell stories and drive social change resonated deeply with me, and I look forward to collaborating with such a remarkable powerhouse in the future. 

As I left OUTFEST, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging and purpose. The event not only showcased the incredible talents of the LGBTQIA+ community but also reaffirmed the importance of diverse storytelling in shaping a more inclusive world. I’m eagerly anticipating more events and connections in the future, and I’m excited to build a long-lasting relationship with OUTFEST, an organization that is at the forefront of creating positive change through the power of storytelling. 

OUTFEST’s mission to create visibility for diverse LGBTQIA+ stories and empower storytellers is not just a statement but a lived reality that I had the privilege of experiencing firsthand. It’s a mission that is changing hearts and minds, one story at a time, and I’m grateful to have been a part of it. Here’s to a future filled with more queer voices, more empathy, and more meaningful social change, all thanks to organizations like OUTFEST.