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WHEREAS, Reel Q, formerly known as the Pittsburgh Lesbian and Gay Film Society, was founded in 1985 by Rich Cummings with the vision of creating a space for authentic LGBTQ+ stories and artists at a time when queer representation in cinema was nearly absent; and
WHEREAS, what began as a grassroots effort has grown into one of the longest running LGBTQ+ film festivals in the world, showcasing hundreds of films from across the globe while also nurturing local filmmakers and premiering groundbreaking works; and
WHEREAS, over the past forty years, Reel Q has amplified LGBTQ+ voices excluded from mainstream media, fostered community dialogue, preserved queer history, and shaped Pittsburgh’s reputation as a hub for queer film and culture; and
WHEREAS, the festival’s longevity is a testament to the dedication of volunteers, artists, sponsors, and audiences who have sustained it, making Reel Q not only an arts festival but also a legacy that enriches Pittsburgh’s cultural fabric and stands as a beacon of pride.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does commend Reel Q for forty years of extraordinary contributions to cinema, culture, and LGBTQ+ visibility; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare, Friday, October 3, 2025, to be “Reel Q Film Festival Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.