LUNAFEST: A virtual force for change in the film industry

The gender disparity in film is real. Women are still painfully underrepresented in this medium.  The overall percentage of female directors has remained unchanged for the past 13 years at an underwhelming 4.8%.

However change is happening and because we believe in the power of the story each woman and girl has to tell, Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin has partnered with LUNA Bar to present LUNAFEST, the first all-women traveling film festival, now in its 19th season and screening virtually for the first time in its history.

“Now more than ever, we are seeing the importance of shining the light on women in film as well as continuing to support community organizations and connecting in new ways,” says Suzy Starke German, Program Director. In response to the impact of COVID-19 on live events, LUNAFEST has pivoted to a virtual format where guests can stream these impactful films from the comfort and safety of their homes. Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin is pleased to be able to offer this virtual screening as a way to connect to the community and help to tell these important stories.

We are presenting seven short films that range from animation to fictional drama and cover a range of topics such as gender identity, body image, relationships, cultural diversity and breaking barriers. These films offer fresh perspectives and ideas that are changing the future of the film industry.

All proceeds from LUNAFEST will benefit Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin and help us to continue to serve girls throughout the region. On Sunday, October 11th at 7:00 PM, Girls on the Run Executive Director, Tina Jones will moderate a panel discussion with a group of local women who will present their own stories and challenges.

EVENT DETAILS
WHEN:  October 9-11, Virtual Screening Weekend Pass
PANEL DISCUSSION: October 11th at 7:00 PM
TICKET PRICE: $15.00
FIND OUT MORE:  www.girlsontherunsoutheasternwi.org/LUNAFEST

PRESS CONTACT:  Tina Jones
tina.jones@girlsontherun.org  414.367.8171

LUNAFEST CONTACT:  Nikki Balcerak
nbalcerak@clifbar.com  206.234.8301

ABOUT GIRLS ON THE RUN SOUTHEASTERN WISCONSIN
Girls on the Run provides programming that strengthens third- to eighth-grade girls’ social, emotional, physical, and behavioral skills to successfully navigate life experiences. Each year we serve approximately 2,000 girls in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Racine, Ozaukee, Walworth, Washington and Waukesha Counties. More than 8,000 girls have participated in the program since it launched in 2007. The curriculum reaches girls at a critical stage, strengthening their confidence at a time when society begins to tell them they can’t. Underscoring the important connection between physical and emotional health, the program addresses the whole girl when she needs it the most. Results show that our programs inspire and empower girls to build healthy physical and mental habits that last long beyond the program. According to a longitudinal study conducted by The University of Minnesota, 97% of Girls on the Run participants said they learn critical life skills including resolving conflict, helping others or making intentional decisions; and 94% of parents reported it was a valuable experience for their girl. To learn more about this impactful non-profit, visit www.girlsontherunsoutheasternwi.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.