The Storytellers Circle
A Community of Leaders Championing LGBTQ+ Cinema. Stand for visibility. Fund the future of queer storytelling
The Storytellers Circle is a giving community of leaders who believe LGBTQ+ stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated — now more than ever. Your philanthropic leadership fuels NewFest’s year-round work supporting filmmakers, expanding representation, and bringing powerful queer stories to audiences across New York and beyond. When you join the Storytellers Circle, you ensure LGBTQ+ stories are not erased—but amplified.
Why Storytelling Matters
Representation shapes culture.For queer and trans youth, seeing themselves reflected on screen can be life-affirming. For audiences everywhere, LGBTQ+ stories foster empathy, deepen understanding, and spark dialogue.
Yet across the country, queer stories are increasingly censored, banned, or underfunded. At NewFest, storytelling is an act of resistance. For more than three decades, we have championed LGBTQ+ voices—connecting filmmakers, audiences, students, and industry leaders through film, conversation, and community. Your support ensures these stories continue to be told.
Your Impact
When you join the Storytellers Circle, you sustain NewFest’s work 365 days a year.
Your generosity helps:
• Cultivate the next generation of LGBTQ+ filmmakers
• Expand access to queer stories through free and low-cost programs
• Bring LGBTQ+ films into classrooms for NYC students
• Support emerging artists with mentorship and grants
• Build community through screenings, festivals, and filmmaker conversations
Every dollar strengthens visibility, opportunity, and belonging.
About NewFest
Founded in 1988, NewFest is the largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the United States and a year-round media arts organization championing queer storytelling. Through film festivals, grants, artist labs, school programs, and community screenings, NewFest creates spaces where LGBTQ+ stories and creators can thrive. At a time when queer visibility faces political and cultural challenges, NewFest remains a powerful platform for representation, dialogue, and creative freedom.
Join the Storytellers Circle
A movement is only as strong as those who fund it. Your support ensures LGBTQ+ stories are told, celebrated, and preserved for generations to come. To discuss your commitment or learn more: David Hatkoff, Executive Director at david@newfest.org