Being Gay: Coming Out in the 21st Century 2003
Distributed by Cambridge Educational, PO Box 931, Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852-0931; 800-468-4227
Produced by Cambridge Educational
Director n/a
VHS, color, 25 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Gay and Lesbian Studies, Gender Studies, Social Work, Psychology
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Ethan Pullman, Reference and Instruction Librarian, Hillman Library, University Library System, University of PittsburghThis is the best short introduction to Gay and Lesbian history in the United States that this reviewer has come across in this genre. The film hits on various events and issues, both historic and contemporary that every Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Transgender (GLBT) person has encountered as they struggle with their identity: self acceptance, social acceptance, alcoholism, suicide, and the stages of acceptance to name a few. But the film goes beyond the members of the GLBT community to understanding those who are touched by that community: family members, peers, or friends. The film is narrated by people that represent the general GLBT community.
It is not surprising to review such high quality production from Cambridge Educational. The editing is superb. It is not easy to provide an understanding of the GLBT experience in 25 minutes. And to augment the quality, included is a “Teacher’s Guide” booklet, that serves as a resource for designing lesson plans. Inside it, one finds educational standards, learning objectives, quick facts, topic and activity suggestions, and information on relevant organizations nation wide.
Highly recommended for public, school, and academic libraries alike.