Welcome to the 34^th annual Tampa Bay International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (TIGLFF) St. Pete Edition!  After a successful Tampa Edition last October, we’re excited to bring you another opportunity to watch world-class narratives, documentaries, and shorts in St. Pete.

Now, I, the Board, and staff have a big request of you…

This is a pivotal time for TIGLFF as we are in desperate need for members of the community to get involved to ensure the organization’s continued existence.  While much has changed over the years regarding the accessibility of LGBTQ+ entertainment, TIGLFF still has a part to play in the community.  Over the years, TIGLFF has brought performing arts – local Drag Queen Daphne Ferraro, nationally known performers such as Suzanne Westenhoefer, Miss Richfield, John Waters, and LGBTQ+ comedians among others.  This is in addition to world-class cinema that you won’t see on streaming services.

THIS COULD BE THE END OF TIGLFF if we can’t find others to take on the work.  TIGLFF has been a part of the Tampa Bay LGBTQ+ community for 34 years.  We’re the oldest film festival and the oldest LGBTQ+ film festival in Florida where LGBTQ+ rights are under continued threat.  This is not a time to lose TIGLFF!

The organization needs first and foremost board leadership – President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary - and members at-large.  Leaders with the skills and desire to keep TIGLFF going and growing for the future who can work with the staff, board, and community.  Secondly, there is a need for experienced volunteers with social media management, advertising, newsletter/email management, fundraising, community partnerships/outreach, and graphic design.

If you are a fit and interested in learning more or know of anyone who might be interested please reach out to me or direct them to me at rob@tiglff.com .  I’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about TIGLFF.

We hope you enjoy the St. Pete Edition of the 34^th TIGLFF.  We hope this is the first of many to come.

See you at the movies!

Rob Akins, President