The Cinema Systers Film Festival (CSFF) debuted in September 2016 and would have celebrated its 5th year anniversary in 2020 had it not been postponed. The organizers temporarily closed it due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus. Even so, word spread about this awesome event and interest continued to grow.

As a rule, films produced by lesbian filmmakers are not highly publicized. Yet they are captivating works of art created by gifted individuals. Their films need more exposure and support, not only from the lesbian community but from all walks of life. The Cinema Systers Film Festival goes a long way toward achieving that goal. It also has the distinction of being the only all-lesbian film festival in the United States. 

After a 2 year sabbatical, the Cinema Systers Film Festival was held during Memorial Day Weekend. The absence, while not welcomed by its fans, was understood and made them hunger even more for its return.  

Women once again flooded the city of Paducah to see lesbian cinema and to reconnect with their friends. The festivities were embraced with a sort of reverence by the attendees. Like the previous 4, this one was received wholeheartedly and was a huge success. The films made us laugh, cry, and cheer while opening our minds to new possibilities.   

It was refreshing to be in the company of sisters again. Hugs and smiles were endless and the entertainment did not disappoint. In addition to film screenings, we had the option of witnessing the powerful delivery of the Spoken Word by E. Nina Jay and swaying to the melodic tunes of Be Steadwell and Kristen Ford.

Some amateur singers got a taste of stardom while belting out lyrics to their favorite Karaoke songs on stage. These women were so good that members of the audience were inspired to dance and sing along. Afterward, DJ Mandy Vixen brought down the house with her amazing voice as she sang the last song of the night.  

No major event would be complete without comedy. It is a much-needed release, especially during these trying times. Comedian Mimi Gonzalez's set had us laughing so hard we thought we were going to fall off our chairs.

The Cinema Systers event wouldn't be the same without the silent auction. One could bid on beautiful art which had been donated for a worthy cause. Also, a variety of workshops were available. Many took advantage of the opportunity to fine-tune their talents by participating in Maria Cartier's filmmaking workshop, B.D. Watkins' screenwriting workshop, Mimi Gonzalez's writing workshop, and Academy Award Winner Rose Sampson's Sound Design workshop.

New this year was the ability to show off your axe-throwing prowess. In case you missed it, you may want to sharpen your skills so you'll be ready next year.

With all of those activities included for one competitive price, one might think you'd have to pay for your meals. However, that wasn't the case. Complimentary, mouth-watering hors d'oeuvres were provided at some of the events.

The scenic backdrop to the Cinema Systers Film Fest is the Ohio River and an astounding landscaped park and gazebo. I always enjoy taking a stroll along the waterfront and beautiful cobblestone sidewalks while visiting Paducah. It is a wonderful city with a variety of shops and restaurants to check out.   

The home to the festival is not only beautiful, but it is also rich in history. Of particular interest is the famous Hotel Metropolitan. During the days of segregation people of color weren't welcome at hotels frequented by white people. The Hotel Metropolitan was different. It provided a safe place for African American travelers. Many famous black entertainers stayed there while performing on what was known as the "Chitlin Circuit."

If you get a chance, stop by the Hotel Metropolitan and meet Betty Dobson. She restored the hotel in the early 2000s and runs it as a museum. She breathes life into the historic building as she tells the story of the Hotel Metropolitan. One can almost visualize the original owner, Ms. Maggie Steed, chatting with the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Thurgood Marshall, Tina Turner, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, BB King, the Harlem Globetrotters, members of the Negro Baseball League, and other famous African American artists.

?????????????????????????????Mark your calendars! With the exception of its inaugural year, The Cinema Systers Lesbian Film Festival is held during Memorial Day Weekend. If you enjoy lesbian movies, you'll love this event. My advice to you is to buy your 2023 tickets early or you may have to wait until 2024 to join in the fun.  

For more information, visit CinemaSysters.com Also, join our Facebook pages: @CinemaSystersFilmFestival and @CinemaSystersFilmFestivalFans 

Do you want to showcase your pride? Check out the merch at PrideAndEquality.org