Long before universities offered courses in LGBTQ studies—and when being openly gay could
cost someone a career—Esther Newton was documenting queer lives, challenging academic orthodoxy, and helping reshape how we understand gender and sexuality. Now, her remarkable journey is the subject of Esther Newton Made Me Gay, hosted by the Workers Unite! Film Festival and available for streaming through Tuesday, June 30 (11 p.m. ET).
Directed by Jean Carlomusto, the 92-minute documentary follows the pioneering cultural anthropologist as she reflects on a lifetime of challenging convention. From discovering gay life in the 1950s to helping establish the fields of LGBTQ and Gender Studies, Newton's story weaves together personal resilience, political change, humor, and an unexpected passion for competitive dog agility.
At a time when LGBTQ+ history and identity are increasingly contested, Esther Newton Made Me Gay offers a powerful reminder that social progress is built through persistence, community, and the courage to live openly against the odds.
The virtual screening is presented by the Workers Unite! Film Festival and sponsored in part by the DC Labor FilmFest and the Global Labor Film Festival Network.
Watch anytime through Tuesday, June 30 at 11 p.m. ET.
To watch, simply create a free Eventive account, reserve your virtual ticket, and stream from your computer, tablet, or phone. You can also watch on your television using the free Eventive TV app.
🎬 Watch now.