Special guest was filmmaker and author Yvonne Welbon, in conversation with Kru about Welbon’s new book, Sisters in the Life, about Black lesbian filmmakers.
Kru is an archivist, DJ and CEO of 10F0LD Productions. “The importance of exploring and preserving our history is more crucial than ever,” she said.
The conversation ranged from Welbon’s own filmmaking work to the groundbreaking influential work of African American lesbians in cinema.
The exhibit that night included special memorabilia from Gerber/Hart Library & Archives, plus extra copies of BLACKlines, sister publication to Outlines, which is now part of Windy City Times. BLACKlines was a monthly LGBTQ publication for African Americans in Chicago, and ran from the mid 1990s to early 2000s.
Also in attendance was openly gay mayoral candidate Lori Lightfoot.
Upcoming events at Affinity, as part of the exhibit, include W.O.M.B> monthly poetry night June 21, 7-9 p.m., a panel discussion Tuesday, July 3, 6-8 p.m., and a closing exhibit July 13, 6-8 p.m. Located at 2850 S. Wabash, behind the back of the building, with free parking.