A LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR

All of us are deserving of love. The same way our lungs require air, our hearts require love, our bodies require touch, and our minds require activity.

On a handful of occasions, a friend has taken me aside to "come out." My response is usually the same: I smile, I offer words of encouragement and a hug. I feel humbled to be trusted with someone’s honest emotions, but a part of me is hurt. Hurt, by a world that doesn't accept people for who they are. Hurt, by a world that marginalizes and belittles people because of difference. Hurt, by a world that forces people to hide their true face.

HARD is an emotionally affirming story about growing up, sexuality, and discovering your identity. The story is told with humor, joy, and positivity because that's what these stories should be – joyful experiences and positive memories dispelling old stereotypes and creating visions for our real world future. I hope one day, nobody feels the need to hide or "come out,” that young people can live their lives unbothered by archaic judgements or gender-biased expectations. The next generation will look at their child and say "I love you as you are.”