NLGJA 2026 National Convention

It might be a news story that seems stranger than fiction or one that hits close to home. Queer and trans documentary filmmakers have been on the frontlines across America, diving deeper into the “ripped from the headlines” stories that feel too important to ignore. In this session, hear from industry leaders and documentary filmmakers who found inspiration from the news to craft films that zoom in on some of the most pressing issues facing LGBTQ+ people today. Using their films as case studies, attendees will see firsthand how these creatives found their story and got their projects made. This panel is perfect for any journalist interested in learning how to work with filmmakers to expand on their stories, or who wants to learn how they can create their own documentaries.