Trans community praised for bravery in new film

Film-makers have praised the bravery of the trans community in Cumbria for sharing their experiences in a new documentary.

I ME US chronicles the stories of those living in the county who are transgender, non-binary or gender non-conforming.

Mason, who features in the film, which is being screened locally in July and August, described how his family struggled with his decision to transition only for his brother to then offer him some shirts in support.

"If just one person can see the film and feel more comfortable, or happy in themselves, then I've done enough," he said.

Producer Debbie Sweeney, from Carlisle-based Eden Film, said there was "a lot of prejudice" which made it difficult for some people to "fit in", adding that Cumbria has "a lot of keyboard warriors".

Mrs Sweeney, who previously worked as a college lecturer, said she found that LGBTQ+ students would often want to move to bigger cities because they could find a "sense of belonging" there, and not feel so visible.

"Somewhere like Cumbria, there's a lot of prejudice and they maybe find it hard to fit in, so it's nice that we can produce a film like this," she said.

Director Paddy Sweeney said those who took part had been brave to tell their stories on camera so candidly.

He said they had filmed with someone who then called to drop out of the project around the time of President Trump's inauguration.

Mr Sweeney said the participant was worried about "having their face out there", and the repercussions it may have for his job.

The film is part of a heritage lottery-funded project, which was commissioned by Pride in North Cumbria (PINC) LGBT+ Youth.

It is being screened for free in venues across Cumbria over July and August, including Rheged cinema in Penrith and Tullie in Carlisle.

Producer and project manager at PINC, Pam Eland, said they wanted to take a snapshot of community "to get their voices heard out there".

She added they were looking to organise showings of the "emotional" film worldwide.

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