On October 10, “We Exist Japan: 私たちの居場所” held an online screening event to kickstart a fundraising campaign for the second episode of its documentary series. The project, which highlights the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals across Japan, aims to shed light on stories that have often been ignored.
Hosted by Maki Gingoyon, COO of My Transgender Date, the event introduced the series’ mission of promoting visibility and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. Produced by Tiffany Rossdale, a Filipino transgender woman living in Japan, the series uses immersive storytelling to explore diverse experiences, from urban life in Tokyo to rural communities. Episode 2 will dive deeper into these narratives by focusing on the pivotal role of family in the LGBTQ+ journey.
This upcoming episode will capture stories from Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima—cities known for their unique histories and modern challenges. In Kyoto, the series will explore how LGBTQ+ individuals navigate the tension between tradition and modernity. At the same time, Osaka will offer a glimpse into the lives of queer people in a vibrant urban center. Hiroshima, a city renowned for its resilience, will reveal how the LGBTQ+ community is creating a space for itself in powerful ways.
Rosdale emphasizes that this episode will delve into how families of LGBTQ+ individuals are formed, accepted, and redefined. It will showcase the love, strength, and challenges that shape their lives, offering viewers a personal look into the bonds that connect these communities.
The team is seeking financial support to produce this next installment. The Kickstarter campaign, which will run until November 20, 2024, aims to raise one million yen. Funds will cover travel, accommodations, meals, and production expenses. The Munakata Foundation, a group that aims to support minorities who the media or major donors do not cover, will match every yen donated, bringing the project closer to its goal.
“We Exist Japan” is driven by a commitment to visibility, empathy, and understanding, ensuring that voices often hidden are heard loud and clear.
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