This newsletter touches on mental health, the state of queer and specifically trans healthcare in the nation currently, and mentions death/suicide. Please read only if you are comfortable to. There is a TL;DR at the bottom for the event itself. Please stay safe, and stay vigilant.
||| FROM ORCAS ISLAND PRIDE |||
This is a crazy (and scary) time we are currently experiencing. So much is happening in the world, and I’m sure many of you are feeling the repercussions and the ripples – even here on our island. The Supreme Court heard arguments in two cases ( Little v. Hecox and West Virginia v. B.P.J.) regarding trans women and trans girls in women’s/girl’s sports just this Wednesday. This coming election, the same issue is on the ballot in Washington state.
All around the nation, states and lawmakers are beating down on our trans brethren, removing life saving access to gender affirming care for both adults and children – especially children. The national average for suicide in queer children is four times that of other kids. In the studies that are performed, it has been shown time and time again that it is not the gender or sexual identity of these kids, but instead how they are ostracized by their community (see here for more info).
The knowledge of what is happening state-wide, and even nation-wide, can be hard to grasp here on the islands. The calm and relaxation that many come here to enjoy can lull one into a sense of isolation, where the world’s problems become invisible. Due to this, we at Orcas Pride invite you to a screening of Heightened Scrutiny and urge you to stay vigilant and aware of the world around you. It will be held on Sunday, February 1st, from 1–3 PM at the Seaview Theatre.
|
|
|
|
| Directed by Sam Feder, Heightened Scrutiny follows attorney Chase Strangio as he advocates for transgender adolescents’ access to gender-affirming healthcare at the Supreme Court, while navigating a media landscape that often fuels fear and misinformation. The film is both deeply personal and profoundly urgent.
Following the screening, we are honored to host a live conversation and Q&A with director Sam Feder. |
| This event is designed to be welcoming, thoughtful, and accessible. Whether you come to learn, to listen, or to stand in solidarity, you are invited. This showing is in collaboration with San Juan Island and Lopez Island. We hope you’ll join us for an afternoon of shared learning, reflection, and connection.
Suggested donation: $10 . All proceeds support the cost of the screening. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. |
| Additional donations are deeply appreciated and help ensure future educational and affirming events remain accessible to all.
Hosting Heightened Scrutiny with director Sam Feder is a meaningful opportunity for our community, and it comes with real costs. If you’re able to give beyond the suggested donation, your support helps cover licensing, travel, and venue expenses, and allows Orcas Pride to continue offering inclusive, educational programming. Every contribution, large or small, helps make this event possible. Thank you for being part of a community that shows up.
|
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
Leave A Comment