Earlier this week, the world celebrated the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. Although we are fortunate enough to live in a country that values openness, tolerance and individual freedom, the fight against prejudice, discrimination and violence based on identity and sexual orientation is far from over.

Because the cause is very important to us at the NFB, here are five films to help you understand the realities of the LGBTQ2 community.

When Love is Gay

This 1994 documentary celebrates love by introducing men and couples who choose to break the silence about their homosexuality. A frank and genuine portrait, When Love is Gay uncovers their quest for acceptance and liberation, reminding us once again that (in the words of Lennon and McCartney)… All you need is love!

When Love Is Gay, Laurent Gagliardi, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Forbidden Love

And what about women? Entirely remastered in high definition, Forbidden Love: The Unashamed Stories of Lesbian Lives delves into the rich history of Canadian queer women’s experiences in the mid-20th century. Earnest, funny, and empowering, Lynne Fernie and Aerlyn Weissman’s must-see documentary tells a story that’s as fascinating as it is important.

Forbidden Love: The Unashamed Stories of Lesbian Lives, Aerlyn Weissman & Lynne Fernie, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Last Chance

Following five asylum seekers’ journey in Canada, Last Chance tackles an unprecedented subject and is the result of 6 years of work by director Paul Émile d’Entremont. Meet Trudi, Carlos, Jennifer, Zaki and Alvaro: after fleeing their country of origin due to violence related to their sexual orientation, they only dream of freedom.

Last Chance, Paul Émile d'Entremont, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Cure For Love

Cure For Love begins with a seemingly normal wedding… that is quite far from being so. A wise commentary on religious fundamentalism in the 21st century, this 2008 documentary focuses on the infamous evangelical movement aimed at “converting” homosexuals to heterosexuality.

Cure for Love, Francine Pelletier & Christina Willings, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Open Secrets

After immigration and religion, let’s explore the topic of the military. A valorous portrait of homosexual men enrolled in the Canadian Army during the Second World War, Open Secrets is quite aptly titled and breaks down 60 year-old taboos.

Open Secrets, José Torrealba, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Dear readers, never forget that Love doesn’t discriminate!