28 Apr 2013 – “Coming out” in Italian families – a film screening and community event

“Coming out” in Italian families – a film screening and community event
On Sunday 28 April 2013, at Trades Hall, Lygon St, Carlton, a group of Italian-Australian GLBTIQ
individuals and their families (parents, partners and children) came together to talk about their
“coming out” experiences

The event sponsored by the Australian Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer
Multicultural Council (AGMC Inc.) was a great success. Approximately 50 people participated. The
event also raised the interest of several ethic media including Il Globo newspaper and SBS Radio.

The Italian-Australian community is one of Australia’s largest migrant groups; and like many other
migrant groups where there is an intersection of faith and culture, GLBTIQ individuals often face
additional difficulties when addressing issues related to their sexual identity.

The event was held against the backdrop of the successful AGEDO Project, a project undertaken by
Italy’s equivalent to PFLAG, supporting the parents of GLBTIQ individuals. It included a screening of a short film (with English subtitles) produced and directed by Italian film-maker, Claudio Cipelletti.
Claudio has worked closely with AGEDO (the Association of Parents and Families of GLBTIQ family
members) and the film highlights the emotions and the transitions many families in Italy have made from their initial difficulties through to the full and unconditional acceptance of their children.

Rita De Santis, the convenor of AGEDO, Claudio Cipelletti himself, and Dr Chiara Bertone, Italy’s
renowned researcher in GLBTIQ family studies, provided a podcast for the day. The film screening
was followed by discussions, entertainment by Elvira and her band – “i vagabondi” with their cheeky twists on traditional Italian songs, and of course afternoon dolci!

AGMC Inc. aims to use this event as a catalyst for future events and research with other
multicultural groups in Victoria. Academic administrator and researcher, Dr Tony Mordini, a
member of the Organising Committee has commented – “We believe this project has wider scope
and reach. The issues that will be raised through these narratives are not exclusive to Italian
parents and their children. People of all races, cultures and creeds will resonate with them.”

If you want further information about the project please contact Tony.

Tony Mordini 0412 777 438 / tony.mordini@gmail.com