Southern Documentary Fund is pleased to present MAMA BEARS at the 28th Annual Cucalorus Film Festival.

Sara Cunningham and Kimberly Shappley are two mama bears — conservative, Christian mothers whose profound love for their LGBTQ+ children has turned them into fierce advocates for the entire queer community. Tammi Terrell Morris is a young African American lesbian whose struggle for self-acceptance exemplifies why the mama bears are so important. MAMA BEARS explores the journeys of these women who have allowed nearly every aspect of their lives to be reshaped by love. Although they may have grown up as fundamentalist, evangelical Christians, mama bears are willing to risk losing friends, family, and faith communities to keep their children safe. Shot in a poetic, deeply intimate style, Daresha Kyi’s touching doc explores the complex intersections of politics, religion, faith, and unconditional love.

There will be a post film discussion with Daresha Kyi (director) moderated by Meredith Persin (LGBTQ+ Program Specialist at UNCW), immediately following the screening.