Inside Out is a not-for-profit registered charity that exists to challenge attitudes and change lives through the promotion, production and exhibition of film made by and about 2SLGBTQ+ people of all ages, races and abilities.
For more than three decades, Inside Out has brought Toronto's 2SLGBTQ+ community together in celebration of the best queer film from Canada and around the world. Through our annual Festivals in Toronto and Ottawa, our filmmaker initiatives, our youth engagement and our year-round events and screenings, Inside Out is engaged every day in challenging attitudes and changing lives.
A note on language:
Throughout this website and messaging on other platforms, we primarily use the acronym 2SLGBTQ+ to refer to those of diverse sexualities, gender identities and expressions. Inside Out recognizes and acknowledges all identities and expressions within the larger spectrum. It is never our intention to be less than inclusive with shortening of the acronym to 2SLGBTQ+, and we are open to feedback from our constituents regarding best future use of the spectrum acronym both in our operating name and our public promotions.
Founded in 1991 as a 2SLGBTQ+ film festival in Toronto, Inside Out is now the largest event of its kind in Canada, spanning multiple cities with year-round programming. Inside Out seeks to be:
• an innovative leader in the production, exhibition and promotion of 2SLGBTQ+ film
• an incubator and support for 2SLGBTQ+ filmmakers both emerging and established
• a leading advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ issues using the medium of film
• an inclusive cultural gathering place for Canadian 2SLGBTQ+ communities
• Innovation: We give our audience new opportunities to engage with 2SLGBTQ+ stories through the medium of film. We are constantly improving our programming and efficiency of operations by adopting new technologies and systems.
• Excellence: We are committed to seeking out the best 2SLGBTQ+ stories from around the world and providing audiences with unique film-based experiences.
• Community: We play a vital role in the social, educational and cultural health of our communities by connecting them with their stories. We are dedicated to reflecting and expanding the dialogue within the 2SLGBTQ+ communities in collaboration with other organizations.
• Inclusion: Inside Out is accessible and inclusive: a safe and welcoming space for filmmakers and film fans from around the world. We at Inside Out respect, reflect and celebrate our communities’ diversity and strive for inclusion of all persons.
In 1991, Inside Out celebrated its first film and video festival with a small community of people who yearned to see film and video created by and about 2SLGBTQ+ people. Currently the largest event of its kind in Canada, the Festival entertains film buffs of all stripes, showcasing the best and most diverse work of interest to 2SLGBTQ+ communities. Taking place over 11 days, the Festival draws crowds of 35 000 to screenings, artist talks, panel discussions, installations and parties that highlight more than 180 films and videos from Canada and around the world. Since 2009, RBC Royal Bank has served as the Lead Sponsor of the Toronto Festival.
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