Context:

The documentary project 'Hidden Once, Hidden Twice' celebrates the lives of senior lesbian couples in the U.S., highlighting their struggles and triumphs throughout decades of societal invisibility. This initiative emphasizes the importance of representation, showing how these women have made themselves visible despite societal barriers, and serves as a tribute to their resilience and authenticity. The project spans across various states and highlights diverse backgrounds, showcasing the significant roles these women have played as activists, artists, and professionals. Notable stories include couples such as Ruth Vanita and Mona Bachmann, who overcame legal and societal challenges, and Gevin Fax and Cathy Tangum, who found love and stability after overcoming homelessness. Through these narratives, the project reinforces the message of enduring love and progress, serving as an inspirational reminder of the significance of visibility and acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community's history and future.

Dive Deeper:

• Morgan Lieberman's project, 'Hidden Once, Hidden Twice,' aims to honor senior lesbian partnerships in the U.S., focusing on their visibility and the societal challenges they have faced, particularly as they age. Lieberman reflects on the lack of older queer role models in her own life and the project's potential to provide such role models for others.

• The project documents the lives of lesbian couples across various states, with a focus on areas where older lesbians have found safe havens, despite living in conservative or rural regions. The slogan 'We are everywhere' underscores the project's mission to highlight the widespread existence of these partnerships.

• The women featured in the project have led diverse and impactful lives, contributing to society as mothers, politicians, therapists, doctors, artists, and activists. They have been at the forefront of women's rights and LGBTQ+ equality, enduring societal exclusion and forging their own paths to success.

• Individual stories like those of Helen Newton and Terry Berg, and Ruth Vanita and Mona Bachmann, showcase the personal and professional achievements of these women, highlighting their resilience and the deep connections they have built over decades, despite facing significant societal and legal challenges.

• The project serves as a love letter to the couples, celebrating their bravery and authenticity in lives often lived under the threat of societal disapproval. It highlights the power of visibility and the slow but impactful progress towards acceptance and equality for LGBTQ+ communities.