Short Summary
This feature length documentary will illustrate the impact that society has on the under privileged transgender community in both Pakistan and America. While we show the realities of hardships they face, we intend to focus on the progress that has been made in hopes to spark more positive change in the future.
Student filmmakers attending the University North Carolina School of the Arts will work in collaboration independently with students from multiple Pakistani Universities to develop this project. Our intention is to share the stories we hear to show a small ounce of what it is like to be transgender in Pakistan and America.
We are excited to have sit down open conversations with members of the transgender community to listen and better understand their individual stories. We intend to connect our interview subjects with each other so they can share their stories with others who have experienced the same hardships and triumphs. Despite the differences of culture, language, history, and resources in both countries, this documentary is a small step to identify the treatment of the transgender community; proving the deep bond that LGBTQ+ people share worldwide.
Starting with southern North Carolina, and Karachi Pakistan, while only a small representation of both hemispheres, these stories will help us connect and understand each other in the most genuine way.
What We Need & What You Get
We have developed a team of artists in Pakistan to reduce the cost of travel, however, we are still in need of a minimum of $7,000 USD. The more money we are able to raise, the more we are able to donate to LGBTQ+ organizations that help provide safe spaces for transgender people in need.
Our goal is to show the realities of day to day life, and unplanned events. Because of this, much of our budget is dedicated towards travel and transportation of crew to allow for our camera to follow where the story takes us. We will also need to cover the cost of COVID protection gear, equipment rentals, studio space rentals, food and other production needs, marketing, distribution and charitable donations.
If you are able and willing to donate, we have a wide variety of thank you offers including behind the scenes pictures, sponsor credit, and many more! Be sure to check out our perks for more details!
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The Impact
Documentaries sharing the experience of transgender communities in Pakistan have been made, even if in few numbers. A comparison and bringing togetherness of transgender Pakistanis and transgender Americans has yet to be shown.
Transgender communities have been discriminated against in all countries from the beginning of time. In a world that is surrounded by misunderstanding and divide, right now is the time to bring these two worlds a little closer. The transgender communities that are thriving worldwide should not cease because of continental divide. Oceans may be separating the American and Pakistan transgender communities, but with your help, we can help them to establish a new-found chosen family.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you are not able to donate, there are many other ways that you can help!
- If you are transgender and wanting to share your story and be a part of this journey, please don’t hesitate to reach out at tte.documentary@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram @thetexperience
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Share this link and follow us on social media @thetexperience to stay tuned for updates!
- Make sure to be informed on transgender news in your area and how you can help advocate for equality for all. Below are just a few resources (not affiliated with this project).
- Trans Lifeline: +1 877-565-8860
- Transequality.org: nationwide news, resources for how to take action, information on rights, self-help guides.
- @transpridesociety on Instagram: Pakistan transgender news, resources, and advocacy.