The Rainbow Report – Empowering the Next Generation: Reflections on the “Gen Queer Z” Miami Premiere 🌈
Last Friday, Safe Schools, in collaboration with the LGBTQ+ Center at the University of Miami, unveiled the groundbreaking project “Gen Queer Z.” This initiative, masterfully produced by the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood and helmed by director Freddy Rodriguez of 66 Films, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Developed in association with Safe Schools, the Miami premiere of “Gen Queer Z” was more than just a screening; it was a vibrant forum for discussion, education, and empowerment.
The event was particularly poignant given the current climate in Florida, where the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” laws cast a shadow over the lives of LGBTQ+ middle and high school students. In these challenging times, “Gen Queer Z” serves as a beacon, illuminating the struggles and triumphs of young LGBTQ+ individuals. During the insightful talk-back session post-screening, an essential question emerged: How can college students and LGBTQ+ student organizations amplify their voices to inspire and support younger students? This query underscores the vital role of higher education spaces as sanctuaries of hope and guidance, especially for those whose anxieties about the future dampen their aspirations for a more inclusive and accepting world.
Adding to the richness of the event, Tiffany, our Director of Outreach and the brain behind “Tiffany Explains It All,” shed light on Safe Schools’ innovative digital strategy. This approach is pivotal in equipping young LGBTQ+ students with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive, especially in an environment where state and local school boards often restrict access to LGBTQ+ information and history. Tiffany’s presentation showcased our diverse programming and previewed upcoming media campaigns. These initiatives are crucial in combatting the misinformation and deceptive content that are unfortunately prevalent, especially as we approach the politically charged 2024 season.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Miami’s Best Pizza for their generous donation, which significantly contributed to the event’s success. Their delicious pizzas were a hit among the attendees, affirming their reputation as Miami’s best.
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce more premiere opportunities for “Gen Queer Z” in the Miami-Dade area. Additionally, we eagerly anticipate the launch of season two of our Safe Schools TV programming in 2024. These endeavors represent our ongoing commitment to standing with the truth and supporting our students in navigating the complexities of the modern world.
Stay tuned for more updates, and join us in this education, empowerment, and advocacy journey.
By: Harold Marrero
Chief Operating Officer
We encourage you to share this information with friends, fellow teachers, and allies and join us in bringing awareness to our efforts. Your support is essential for our ongoing work to create safe spaces for all students, regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or expression. Please consider donating to Safe Schools so that we can continue advocating for inclusivity and diversity within the education system.
