Check It is a truly powerful documentary about the singular gang of gay black teens who warded off their vulnerability by becoming a protective family of their own while living on the streets of Washington, D.C. The film was directed by Toby Oppenheimer and Dana Flor with Steve Buscemi serving as executive producer. While wrapping up the excellent online series Horace and Pete, Buscemi invited co-star Louis C.K.to a screening of the film. The comedian was so impressed that he’s made the film available for purchase on his site (via).

The film knocked me right over. It was an amazing emotional ride. It was funny and moving, I learned a lot and it gave me a lot to think about after. …It’s not an easy film. It takes on life right where the rubber hits the road. What made me love it was just the kids themselves. They are like any kids, like anyone’s children. They are trying to cope against terrible odds, they are funny and full of hope and life. Their lives are difficult and complex.

The LBGTQ is, for sure, not my enemy, but they are unknown. Admittedly, I don't have many friends from this community, but I do have a few, and what I've discovered isn't all that surprising: we're more alike than we are different.

However, and sadly, many would consider the LBGTQ community enemies, and because so, this sort of film would stir emotions of anger and frustration and possibly even an affirmation of some already held prejudices. To that, all I can say is the LBGTQ is not a single story, and they deserve, like anybody else, to be known. Even if they're not agreed with.

For a detailed history on "one of American history's darker moments," the Stonewall Riots, where the gay rights movement was galvanized in the United States, check out this episode on Stuff You Should Know.

For more on . . .

-N- Stuff : Humanity : Listening to the Stories of others : How the Rainbow Flag Became a Symbol of LGBTQ Pride

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