Christopher Racster has spent his career making sure LGBTQ+ storytellers get their work in front of audiences — and have the opportunity to build lasting careers from it.
As a filmmaker and the interim executive director of Outfest, Racster describes his work as using storytelling “to build empathy and drive change for LGBTQ+ communities.” This year, he helped usher the nonprofit into a new chapter, bringing revitalized programming alongside the new OutfestNEXT film festival and its inaugural Producers Lab.
For Racster, Outfest’s revival is especially meaningful at a time when LGBTQ+ institutions are facing political hostility and shrinking funding. “When we are losing ground and losing safe third spaces, Outfest provides a place for all of the communities that make up our LGBTQ+ community to come together in a space purpose built just for them,” he says.
Next, Racster will split his time between the U.S. and Wales while continuing to foster the long-term success of LGBTQ+ storytellers.
“Sharing our stories with the people in our lives is still one of the most authentic ways to build empathy, create change and protect our rights,” he says. “At Outfest, I’m proud to amplify those stories to the world.” @outfest
