Are You Okay? Artist Presentation

Through on screen images, audio interviews and personal narratives award-winning photographer and author Jesse Freidin will spark a thoughtful dialogue about trans rights in America, and how your community can become more welcoming and effective allies.

This presentation, based on Jesse's national documentary on trans and non-binary youth 'Are You OK?', uncovers themes of strength, joy and survival that often get overlooked during our contemporary political moment. Moving messages from kids and parents, including local Iowa families, encourage the audience to reflect on their own commitment to social justice. Included will be a brief overview of current anti-trans legislation and guidance on how to be an active ally, as well as time for Q + A.

Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89150535531?pwd=a1BEL2hnMmdvNFZKbVdsVldDakVSdz09
Passcode: 516212

There will be a viewing of the virtual presentation in the Rotary Room for those unable to see it online.

Photographer's Bio:

Jesse Freidin was America's leading fine art dog photographer for the past 15 years, and now focuses his attention on elevating the experience of the LGBTQIA+ community through portraiture and interviews. His photography is part of over 150 private collections and has been exhibited in galleries nationally. His current series “Are You OK?” addresses the dangerous wave of anti-trans legislation sweeping the country in a passionate attempt to erase stigma and elevate the voices of those most affected. Jesse’s work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, The Huffington Post, Inside Edition and more. He is the author of two books: When Dogs Heal: Powerful Stories of People Living with HIV and the Dogs That Saved Them (Lerner Books 2020), and Finding Shelter: Portraits of Love, Healing and Survival (Lyons Press 2017).

Social Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/jessefreidin/

https://www.facebook.com/jessefreidinphotographer

Presented in partnership with Ames Public Library, the Teen Advisory Group, Ames Pride, and One Iowa. Sponsored by the Ames Public Library Friends Foundation.