Young Roots
The film production company worked with a group of young people who identified as LGBTQ+, training them in archive research, oral history, interview techniques and filmmaking. The young people created a documentary film, Something About Us, combining the history they had uncovered and interviews they carried out. They also recorded their own reflections as the project developed, creating a separate film, W.O.Wing Me, W.O.Wing You.
The films were screened at a variety of locations including the Savoy Cinema in Worksop, Nottinghamshire Archives, Nottinghamshire Rainbow Heritage’s awards evening, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield. E.D.E.N. also developed a series of accompanying workshops, which were delivered at local school, the Newark Academy.
Unearthing some fascinating history, the project also provided numerous benefits for the participants and the local community. The young people developed a range of new skills while finding a voice within their community. Their experiences as the project progressed also helped them explore their own personal journeys. For the wider community, the project was a chance to better understand the local LGBTQ+ community.