Creating a film about the lives of two lesbian women is crucial for several reasons, particularly in terms of advocacy and representation. Historically, LGBTQI women have often been marginalized or erased from mainstream narratives, making it essential to shed light on their experiences and contributions, many of whom having to keep a core part of their identity a secret. Furthermore, it is important for us to remind audiences that sexuality in ageing remains an essential part of our identity and should not be erased simply by getting older. Many individuals feel the need to go back into the closet later in life because of prejudice around sexuality in our older years, particularly for those of us who identify as sexually and gender diverse.

It is our hope that this film, Iridescence, offers audiences the opportunity to gain insight into how important it is to hold space, empathy and compassion for other people who love differently to them. LGBTQI+ people are people too, and we absolutely deserve to be able to experience love, companionship and acceptance for who we are.

How does film serve a purpose in promoting positive change and healing for greater society?

1. Advocacy: Films serve as potent advocacy tools by highlighting the specific challenges faced by LGBTQI women. These challenges often include systemic discrimination, violence, and exclusion from societal benefits. Older lesbians often encounter specific issues such as social isolation, inadequate healthcare, and discrimination in senior services.By bringing these issues to the forefront, filmmakers can galvanize support for legal and social reforms, pushing for policies that address inequalities in areas such as healthcare, education, and employment. Additionally, films can spotlight grassroots movements and organizations working to support LGBTQI women, thereby amplifying their impact and encouraging greater community involvement.

2. Representation: For too long, LGBTQI women have been marginalized or inaccurately portrayed in mainstream media. Traditional narratives have often ignored or misrepresented their experiences, contributing to a lack of understanding and empathy. By providing authentic and diverse portrayals of LGBTQI women, films can combat these inaccuracies and offer a broader, more inclusive view of human experiences. Such representation not only helps to dismantle stereotypes but also fosters a greater appreciation for the complexities of LGBTQI lives, affirming their identities and contributions.

3. Historical Perspective: Exploring the historical experiences of LGBTQI women through film is essential for several reasons. Historically, their contributions have been overlooked or overshadowed by dominant narratives. Films that focus on LGBTQI women's history can reveal the pivotal roles they have played in social and political movements, such as the fight for civil rights, feminist activism, and LGBTQI advocacy. Documenting these stories helps preserve important historical memories and educates current and future generations about the ongoing struggle for equality. This historical lens also contextualizes present-day issues and illustrates the progress achieved, while highlighting the work still needed to address ongoing disparities.

4. Role Models and Inspiration: Representation in film offers powerful role models for LGBTQI women, particularly for younger individuals who may be struggling with their own identities. Seeing characters who navigate similar challenges and achieve personal growth can be immensely validating and inspiring. It helps to build resilience and self-esteem, showing that success and happiness are attainable despite societal obstacles. Furthermore, these films can foster a sense of pride and community, encouraging LGBTQI women to connect with others who share their experiences and aspirations.

5. Addressing Society’s Attitude Toward End-of-Life Care: Society often has an unhealthy relationship with death, characterized by denial and discomfort. This avoidance can lead to inadequate support systems and a lack of meaningful conversations about end-of-life issues. A film that thoughtfully explores life and death can confront these taboos and foster a healthier dialogue about mortality. By addressing death openly and respectfully, the film can encourage viewers to reflect on their own attitudes and prepare for end-of-life matters in a more informed and compassionate way.

6. Cultural Shifts: Films about LGBTQI women contribute to broader cultural shifts by challenging prevailing norms and expanding the scope of what is considered acceptable and valued in society. By bringing LGBTQI women's stories to mainstream audiences, filmmakers can challenge and transform societal attitudes, promoting greater acceptance and understanding. This cultural impact can extend beyond the film's release, influencing public discourse and contributing to long-term changes in social attitudes and norms.

7. Intersectionality: Films that portray LGBTQI women can also address the intersectionality of identities, such as race, class, age, and disability, within the LGBTQI community. This nuanced approach helps to illustrate the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals at these intersections, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved. Highlighting these intersections can also draw attention to the unique forms of discrimination and inequality that different groups within the LGBTQI community may encounter.

In conclusion, making a film about queer or sexually diverse women is vital for advocacy, accurate representation, preserving historical narratives, providing role models, fostering cultural change, and addressing intersectional issues. Such films not only enrich the cultural landscape but also play a crucial role in advancing social justice and equality.