Pride Film Series: Joe Bell

In recognition of Pride Month in June, Chatham Community Library will host a four-part film series Wednesday evenings, June 7, through June 28,  from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the Holmes Family Meeting Room. These events are free and open to the public.

Wednesday, June 21: “‘Joe Bell” (2020). The true story of a small-town, working-class father who embarks on a walk across the U.S. to crusade against bullying after his son is tormented in high school for being gay. Meanwhile, he realizes he is instead missing out on his son’s life back at home.

Other films in the series include:

Wednesday, June 7: “Philadelphia” (1993). Fearing it would compromise his career, lawyer Andrew Beckett hides his homosexuality and HIV status at a powerful Philadelphia law firm. But his secret is exposed when a colleague spots the illness’s telltale lesions. Fired shortly afterwards, Beckett resolves to sue for discrimination. Starring Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, and Roberta Maxwell.

Wednesday, June 14: “Deep Run” (2015). Cole, a young transgender Christian man, is growing up in rural North Carolina. With his girlfriend, Ashley, he faces significant challenges, including hostile family and church members, and crippling financial burdens. Through all of these trials, their vision of an accepting God never falters. Produced by Susan Sarandon.

Wednesday, June 28: “The Freedom to Marry” (2016). Over the last four decades, the concept of same-sex couples marrying went from a ‘preposterous notion’ to the national law. The Freedom to Marry movement is now known as one of the most successful civil rights campaigns in modern history, but change did not arrive by happenstance.

Residents may visit the libraries’ website www.chathamlibraries.org, or contact the library at (919) 545-8084 for more information on this and other events and programs.